📅 Since 1880🏆 64 years in top 1003.28% of births at peak
How to pronounce Barbara
BAH·rber·uh
/ˈbɑ.rbɝ.ə/ · stress on BAH · 2 syllables
“Foreign; strange”
Greece origin · Unisex name
What does Barbara mean and where does it come from?
The name Barbara is of Greek origin and translates to 'foreign woman'. It was popularized by Saint Barbara, a legendary Christian martyr in the 3rd century. The name has been widely used across various cultures and languages, maintaining its presence throughout the centuries. It has also been a comm
Cultural significance
Barbara has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Greece-speaking communities, where it reflects values of foreign; strange.
Rising fast — up 90 spots — currently #876 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
US Trend 1880–2023#876 · Top 0.65%
1965
1970
1975
1980
1985
1990
1995
2000
2005
2010
2015
2020
2021
2022
2023
Year
US Rank
Births
vs Prior Year
2023
#876
307
▲ up 90 · +11% births
2022
#966
276
▼ down 62 · -8% births
2021
#904
299
▼ down 5 · +3% births
2020
#899
289
▼ down 39 · -11% births
2015
#860
324
▼ down 159 · -20% births
2010
#701
406
▼ down 10 · +2% births
2005
#691
400
▼ down 184 · -24% births
2000
#507
526
▼ down 159 · -30% births
1995
#348
753
▼ down 141 · -46% births
1990
#207
1,388
▼ down 38 · -17% births
1985
#169
1,675
▼ down 49 · -35% births
1980
#120
2,577
▼ down 37 · -25% births
1975
#83
3,453
▼ down 42 · -57% births
1970
#41
8,026
▼ down 16 · -43% births
1965
#25
14,026
—
Name Popularity Timeline
Popularity Statistics for Barbara
1940Rank #2
41,552
#287
↘Falling
1900 - 202328 years
The story of Barbara
Barbara has been a beloved American name for over 144 years, first appearing in Social Security records in 1880. It peaked at #2 in 1937, placing it among the top 10 most popular names. Over 1439K babies have been given this name — a true American classic. Once ranked #128 in 1880, the name has become less common in recent years, sitting at #876 in 2023. Barbara is used for both genders: 100% female and 0% male.
Barbara means "Foreign; strange" — a name rooted in Greece tradition that carries both historical depth and timeless appeal. The meaning reflects values that have made this name endure across generations.
How popular is the name Barbara?
Barbara is currently ranked #876 as a baby name in the US and is rapidly gaining popularity — searches for Barbara have increased significantly in recent years.
What is the cultural origin of Barbara?
Barbara originates from Greece tradition. Greece names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How do you pronounce the name Barbara?
Barbara is a two-syllable name pronounced B AA1 R B ER0 AH0. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Barbara trending right now?
Barbara is currently on the rise — it has gained significant momentum in recent years as parents discover its appeal.
Sibling names that pair with Barbara
For a sister
Barbara & Sophia♡
Barbara & Castoria♡
Barbara & Sofia♡
Barbara & Thema♡
For a brother
Barbara & Stephen♡
Barbara & Theoplis♡
Barbara & Theodore♡
Barbara & Dorus♡
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Worldwide ranking · 2023
Country
Rank
🇺🇸 USA
#876
🇬🇧 UK
—
🇨🇦 Canada
—
🇦🇺 Australia
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