Barra
“spear”
Irish origin · Unisex name
#1666US 2023
10Births / yr
→Stable
Top 1.2%Percentile
What does Barra mean and where does it come from?
Barra is derived from the Irish name 'Barra', which is a diminutive of 'Bartholomew'.
Cultural significance
In Ireland, Barra is often used as a given name and is associated with various cultural and historical figures.
Peak popularity
Reached #1666 in 2015 — currently #1666 in the US.
How else can you spell Barra?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Barra?
Barra works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Barra Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Barra John
One syllable · timeless choice
Barra Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Barra Leah
One syllable · timeless choice
Barra Gael
One syllable · timeless choice
Barra Quinn
One syllable · timeless choice
How popular is Barra right now?
Holding steady — currently #1666 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
Barra is exceptionally rare — it does not appear in US Social Security records, meaning fewer than 5 babies per year have received this name.
What are good nicknames for Barra?
ENGLISH
BRITISH(BazBazza
Famous people named Barra
BG
Barra Grant
An American actress and writer known for her work in film and television.
BO
Barra O'Briain
An Irish comedian and television presenter.
What names sound and feel like Barra?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Barra also consider these
How is Barra written in other languages?
Common questions about the name Barra
What does the name Barra mean?
Barra means "spear" — a name rooted in Irish 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 Barra?
Barra is currently a distinctive and less common name as a baby name in the US and is holding steady in popularity, a reliable classic that parents consistently choose.
What is the cultural origin of Barra?
Barra originates from Irish tradition. Irish names tend to carry strong cultural heritage and have spread across the world through migration, literature, and religion over centuries.
Is Barra a common or rare name?
Barra is a distinctive choice that balances familiarity with individuality. It strikes a balance between standing out and fitting in.
Is Barra more of a girl or boy name?
Barra is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.
Parents who viewed Barra also looked at…
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