Barbara
The Meaning & Origin of the Name Barbara
Barbara, which has 7 letters and 3 syllables, is a female name of Latin origin.
Meaning of Barbara
Stranger
Barbara is a Latin name meaning “foreign woman” or “stranger”. It is also connected to the Greek word “barbaros”, which means “stranger” or “barbarian”. The name is often associated with the Christian saint Barbara, who was martyred for her faith in the fourth century.
| Meaning | Stranger |
| Origin | Latin |
| Gender | Girl |
| Popularity (US) | #860 in 2024 Rising |
| Rarity (US) | Rare (Top 1000) |
| Era | Vintage (1930s) |
Background & History of The Name Barbara
The name 'Barbara' is of Greek origin and has been in use since ancient times. It is derived from the Greek word 'barbaros,' which means 'foreign' or 'barbarian.' The name Barbara became popular in Europe during the Middle Ages and has a strong religious association as it is linked to Saint Barbara, a third-century Christian martyr. Saint Barbara was revered for her faith and endurance, and she became the patron saint of various professions and causes, including artillerymen, miners, and architects. As a given name, Barbara gained widespread popularity in English-speaking countries during the 20th century.
The name Barbara carries various meanings, including 'strange,' 'exotic,' or 'foreign.' It can also symbolize strength, courage, and determination due to its association with Saint Barbara. In terms of popularity, Barbara enjoyed immense success during the mid-20th century, peaking in the 1940s and 1950s. It remained among the top ten most popular names for girls in the United States from the 1930s to the 1960s.
Barbara has been a name given to numerous notable individuals throughout history. One well-known Barbara is the American actress and singer Barbra Streisand, who has achieved great success in the entertainment industry, winning various awards and selling millions of albums worldwide. Another impactful Barbara is the former First Lady of the United States, Barbara Bush, who was the wife of President George H. W. Bush and the mother of President George W. Bush. She was admired for her advocacy for literacy and her dedication to public service.
The name Barbara, with its diverse origins and rich history, has left a lasting impact on the world and continues to be a popular choice for girls today.
Popularity Over Time
US Social Security Administration data showing the rank of Barbara over the years.
Similar Latin Baby Names
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Nicknames
Common nicknames and short forms for Barbara.
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