What does Barrett mean and where does it come from?
Barrett originally emerged as a surname in Irish and English contexts but has evolved into a first name, particularly in the United States. The name carries connotations of strength and resilience, an appealing factor for parents naming their daughters. Its unisex nature adds to its versatility. Not
Cultural significance
Barrett has been a cherished name across cultures, particularly in USA-speaking communities, where it reflects values of irish.
Peak popularity
Reached #171 in 2025 — currently #171 in the US.
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Related Reading
USA-origin baby names with timeless appeal
Browse names →How else can you spell Barrett?
Same sound, different look — useful if you want something slightly more distinctive
What middle names flow best with Barrett?
Barrett works best with short, strong middle names — one or two syllables keep the full name from becoming a mouthful
Barrett Jack
One syllable · timeless choice
Barrett John
One syllable · timeless choice
Barrett Luke
One syllable · timeless choice
Barrett Miles
One syllable · vintage charm
Barrett Gael
One syllable · timeless choice
Barrett Kai
One syllable · vintage charm
How popular is Barrett right now?
Rising — up 16 spots — currently #171 in the US out of 135.5k tracked names
| Year | US Rank | Births | vs Prior Year |
|---|
| 2025 | #171 | 2,138 | ▲ up 16 · +7% births |
| 2024 | #187 | 1,989 | ▲ up 19 · +11% births |
| 2023 | #206 | 1,786 | ▲ up 2 |
| 2022 | #208 | 1,788 | ▼ down 15 · -9% births |
| 2021 | #193 | 1,962 | ▲ up 5629 · +9710% births |
| 2020 | #5822 | 20 | ▼ down 533 · -20% births |
| 2015 | #5289 | 25 | ▼ down 1105 · -29% births |
| 2010 | #4184 | 35 | ▲ up 1626 · +67% births |
| 2005 | #5810 | 21 | ▲ up 1015 · +40% births |
| 2000 | #6825 | 15 | ▼ down 159 · +15% births |
| 1995 | #6666 | 13 | ▲ up 3582 · +86% births |
| 1990 | #10248 | 7 | ▼ down 3262 · -22% births |
| 1985 | #6986 | 9 | ▲ up 3501 · +80% births |
| 1980 | #10487 | 5 | ▼ down 5288 · -55% births |
| 1975 | #5199 | 11 | — |
The story of Barrett
Barrett is a relatively modern name, first appearing in US records in 1965. A total of 24,560 babies have received this name. The name has grown more popular over time, rising from #6612 in 1965 to #206 in 2023. Barrett is used for both genders: 3% female and 97% male.
Names that peaked alongside Barrett in 2025:
Barrett by decade
Barrett peaked in the 2020s. See all 2020s names →
| Decade | Births | |
|---|
| 1880s | 11 | |
| 1900s | 6 | |
| 1910s | 82 | |
| 1920s | 155 | |
| 1930s | 209 | |
| 1940s | 365 | |
| 1950s | 574 | |
| 1960s | 887 | |
| 1970s | 1,483 | |
| 1980s | 2,276 | |
| 1990s | 1,746 | |
| 2000s | 2,959 | |
| 2010s ★ | 11,789 | |
| 2020s | 6,213 | |
What are good nicknames for Barrett?
What names sound and feel like Barrett?
Based on sound, origin, and style — parents who love Barrett also consider these
Common questions about the name Barrett
What does the name Barrett mean?
Barrett means "Irish" — a name rooted in USA 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 Barrett?
Barrett is currently ranked #206 in the United States 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 Barrett?
Barrett originates from USA tradition. USA 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 Barrett?
Barrett is a two-syllable name pronounced BAR-it. The pronunciation is straightforward for English speakers, and the name reads clearly on paper — an important practical consideration for parents.
Is Barrett more of a girl or boy name?
Barrett is a genuinely unisex name used for both boys and girls. The unisex quality makes it particularly versatile for modern families.