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Name Popularity Over Time
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Similar Names
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Barbara is a classic and enduring female name with a rich historical legacy. Originating from the Greek word "barbaros," meaning "foreign" or "strange," the name Barbara was later associated with the Latin word "barba," meaning "beard." This connection led to the name's use for female saints who defied social norms, such as the 3rd-century martyr St. Barbara.
The name Barbara has its roots in ancient Greece, where it was used to describe individuals from outside the Hellenic world. Over time, the name took on more positive connotations, coming to symbolize independence, strength of character, and nonconformity. When the name was adopted into Latin and Christian traditions, Barbara became associated with female saints who resisted social pressures and upheld their religious convictions.
After enjoying widespread popularity in the early-to-mid 20th century, the name Barbara has seen a gradual decline in recent years. In 2022, it ranked #977 on the Social Security Administration's list of most popular baby names, with 127 newborn girls receiving the name. Despite its waning popularity, Barbara remains a classic choice that evokes a sense of sophistication and timelessness.
Some well-known women who bear the name Barbara include actress Barbara Stanwyck, Supreme Court Justice Barbara Lagoa, and civil rights activist Barbara Jordan. The name has also been shared by several European royals, including Barbara of Brandenburg, Duchess of Saxony-Lauenburg, and Barbara Radziwill, Queen of Poland.
Barbara is a name that exudes elegance and poise. It is considered a "classic" choice that appeals to parents seeking a traditional yet distinctive name for their daughter. Individuals with this name are often perceived as intelligent, independent, and strong-willed, with a touch of old-world charm.
Parents drawn to the name Barbara may value its rich history and cultural significance. The name is well-suited for daughters of families with European or Christian backgrounds, as it holds deep roots in those traditions. Overall, Barbara is a thoughtful selection for parents who want to bestow a timeless, sophisticated name on their child.
In literature and mythology, the name Barbara is associated with various saints, including the 3rd-century martyr St. Barbara, who was imprisoned in a tower and later beheaded for her Christian faith. The name is also linked to the patronage of architects, artillerymen, and mathematicians, as well as the protection against lightning, fever, and sudden death.
Musically, the name Barbara has been immortalized in songs such as "Ma Petite Barbara" by French singer-songwriter Georges Brassens and "Barbara Allen," a traditional English folk ballad. In film, notable Barbaras include actress Barbara Stanwyck and director Barbara Kopple.
If you're drawn to the classic elegance of the name Barbara, you might also consider the following alternative or sibling name suggestions:
These names share a similar vintage charm and sophisticated style, making them natural complements to the name Barbara.
1880 | 127 | 128 |
1881 | 130 | 124 |
1882 | 130 | 138 |
1883 | 135 | 143 |
1884 | 193 | 128 |
1885 | 195 | 129 |
1886 | 207 | 133 |
1887 | 204 | 132 |
1888 | 253 | 135 |
1889 | 246 | 140 |
Rows per page
Clara | 2,541 | View Details |
Martha | 402 | View Details |
Carla | 291 | View Details |
Betty | 208 | View Details |
Pamela | 93 | View Details |
Roberta | 64 | View Details |
Debra | 39 | View Details |
Barbie | 27 | View Details |
Barabra | 0 | View Details |
Babara | 0 | View Details |
Barbra | 0 | View Details |
Barbaraanne | 0 | View Details |
Barbaraann | 0 | View Details |
Barbarba | 0 | View Details |
Barbaraa | 0 | View Details |
Barby | 0 | View Details |
Barb | 0 | View Details |
Barbro | 0 | View Details |
Barbaa | 0 | View Details |
Barbora | 0 | View Details |
Babs | 0 | View Details |
Barbaranne | 0 | View Details |
Barara | 0 | View Details |
Barbare | 0 | View Details |
Barbi | 0 | View Details |
Barbee | 0 | View Details |
Bernarda | 0 | View Details |
Doborah | 0 | View Details |
Deborha | 0 | View Details |
Deborh | 0 | View Details |