What does Barr mean and where does it come from?
Barr is an Anglicized form of the Gaelic surname 'O'Bearra', which can be associated with various meanings in Scottish and Irish contexts. In Scotland, it can mean 'the top of a hill', linking to geographical features, while in Ireland, it can mean 'spear' or 'warrior'. The name has a strong histori
Cultural significance
Barr has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in Scotland-speaking communities, where it reflects values of the top of a hill.
Peak popularity
Reached #3765 in 1954 — currently #993 in the US.
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Related Reading
Scotland-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →What middle names flow best with Barr?
Barr works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Barr Grace
Most popular combo · classic
Barr Rose
Floral · soft ending
Barr Claire
French influence · crisp
Barr Jane
Literary · strong
Barr Skye
Modern · airy feel
How popular is Barr right now?
Holding steady — currently #993 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2023 | #993 | 1,207 | ▲ up 5 · +2% births |
| 2022 | #998 | 1,187 | ▲ up 5 · +3% births |
| 2021 | #1003 | 1,157 | — |
The story of Barr
Barr entered American naming records in 1946 and has been in use for over 78 years. With 16 total births recorded, Barr remains relatively uncommon. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #1003 in 2021 to #993 in 2023.
Names that peaked alongside Barr in 1954:
💎Barr has only 16 total recorded births since 1946 — rarer than 99% of names in our database.
What are good nicknames for Barr?
What names sound and feel like Barr?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Barr also consider these
Common questions about the name Barr
What does the name Barr mean?
Barr means "the top of a hill" — a name rooted in Scotland 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 Barr?
Barr is currently ranked #993 as a boy name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Barr?
Barr originates from Scotland tradition. Scotland names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
How does Barr sound with different last names?
As a one-syllable name, Barr flows best with last names of two or three syllables. Avoid last names ending in the same sound as Barr ends, as this can create an unwanted rhyme. Test by saying the full name out loud several times.
Is Barr a common or rare name?
Barr is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.