Origin, Meaning, And History Of Barbara
Barbara is a popular name derived from the feminine form of the Greek word ‘barbaros’, which means ‘stranger’ or ‘foreign.’ The term ‘barbaros’ was initially used by Greeks to describe all foreigners, including the Romans. However, as they engaged more with other civilizations, the name began to take on a broader meaning.
St. Barbara is a prominent figure in the Roman Catholic and Greek Orthodox traditions and bears this name. She is said to have been martyred by her father, Dioscorus, who was, in turn, killed by lightning. St. Barbara is revered as the patron saint of architects, geologists, stonemasons, and artillerymen. According to historical accounts, the name was almost extinct in England after the protestant reformation but was revived in the 19th century.
Barbara has several variants, such as Barbra, Barbe, and Varvara, and some cute nicknames like Barb, Babe, Babs, Babsy, and Barbie. In modern times, Barbara and its variants have become popular names for baby girls across several countries in contemporary times, such as Chile, Poland, Slovakia, Russia, Estonia, Georgia, and Hungary, among others.
The name Barbara has made several appearances in popular culture.Barbara Allenis a traditional folk song that is popular throughout the English-speaking world. There are several songs by several different artists of the same name.
Characters named Barabara have also appeared in several works by Charles Dickens and William Makepeace Thackeray.Barbara Undershaftis the idealistic protagonist of the George Bernard Shaw play Major Barbara.Barbara “Barb” Hollandwas a recurring character in Season one of the hit Netflix show Stranger Things.
How To Pronounce Barbara?
Famous People With The Name Barbara
- Barbara Joan “Barbra” StreisandAmerican singer, actress, one of the few performers awarded an Emmy, Grammy, Oscar, and Tony
- Barbara Sue BoxerAmerican politician and lobbyist, served in the United States Senate
- Barbara Jill WaltersAmerican broadcast journalist and television personality, received a Lifetime Achievement Award from the NATAS
- Barbara StanwyckAmerican actress, model, and dancer, received an Honorary Oscar in 1982
- Barbara McClintockAmerican scientist and cytogeneticist, received Nobel Prize in Physiology or Medicine in 1983
Barbara On The Popularity Chart
Barbara was one of the most preferred baby names among parents during the early 1980s. However, the name’s popularity declined in subsequent years, reaching its lowest in 2021.
Popularity Over Time
The name experienced the steepest decline between 1981 and 1986. Take a look at the graph below for more insights.
Source:Social Security AdministrationRank Over Time
In 1980, Barbara held the 120th position on the popularity chart, but its ranking has consistently decreased over time, hitting a low point of 933 in 2019.
Source:Social Security AdministrationNames With Similar Sound As Barbara
Barbara represents grit and tenacity. Below is a list of names that convey a similar sense of resilience.
Popular Sibling Names For Barbara
Other Popular Names Beginning With B
Names With Same Meaning As Barbara
Barbara emanates an enduring and majestic aura. Find below some names that convey a similar sense of grandeur.
Infographic: Know The Name’s Personality As Per Numerology
Illustration: Momjunction Design Team
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How To Communicate The Name In Other Languages
In Nautical Flags
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In Sign Language
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In Braille Alphabet
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In Morse Code
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Name Numerology For Barbara
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the meaning of the name Barbara?
The name Barbara means stranger, visitor, or alien.
2. What is the origin of the name Barbara?
Barbara has Latin and Slovene origin.
3. How to pronounce the name Barbara?
Barbara is pronounced as bar-ba-ra.
4. Are there any famous songs or books that mention the name Barbara?
这首歌“芭芭拉安”的海滩男孩成为了iconic rock ‘n’ roll hit in the 1960s. Dolly Parton’s album Jolene includes the song “Barbara On Your Mind.” Barbara Allen is a well-known traditional folk song cherished in English-speaking countries. Notable literary works by Charles Dickens and William Makepeace Thackeray also feature characters named Barbara. Enid Blyton’s Secret Seven book series also includes a character named Barbara
5. Is the name Barbara more commonly used for girls or boys?
The name Barbara is predominantly used for girls. Historically, Barbara is a traditional feminine name and remains popular as a feminine name.
6. Are there any significant name variations or translations of Barbara in different languages?
The name Barbara has several variants across cultures and languages. They include Barbra, Barbe, and Varvara. Other popular options areBarb, Babe, Babs, Babsy, and Barbie.
