baby name

HOME > Barbara

Barbara name Meaning and Origin

Editor by Lisa Rudy | Checked by Laura Gordon

What is the meaning

The name Barbara is a feminine given name that has been in use since the Middle Ages. It is derived from the Greek word "barbaros," which means "foreign" or "strange." The name was popularized in the Christian world by Saint Barbara, a third-century martyr who was venerated by the Eastern Orthodox Church and the Roman Catholic Church. The name Barbara has been used in various forms throughout history, including Barbra, Barbe, and Barb. It has been a popular name in many countries, including the United States, Canada, England, and Germany. The meaning of the name Barbara is often associated with strength and courage. Saint Barbara is known for her bravery in the face of persecution and her unwavering faith in God. She is often depicted holding a tower, which symbolizes her steadfastness and resilience. In addition to its association with strength and courage, the name Barbara is also associated with wisdom and knowledge. The Greek word "barbaros" was often used to refer to people who spoke a different language or had a different culture. As a result, the name Barbara has come to represent a person who is open-minded and curious about the world around them. The name Barbara has been used in many works of literature and art throughout history. In Shakespeare's play "The Merchant of Venice," the character Portia disguises herself as a lawyer named Balthazar, which is a variation of the name Barbara. In the novel "Jane Eyre" by Charlotte Bronte, the character Bertha Mason is referred to as "the madwoman in the attic," but her real name is revealed to be Barbara. In popular culture, the name Barbara has been used in many different ways. In the 1960s, the singer Barbra Streisand became famous for her powerful voice and her performances in movies like "Funny Girl" and "Hello, Dolly!" In the 1980s, the character Barbara Gordon became the superhero Batgirl in the DC Comics universe. Overall, the name Barbara is a strong and timeless name that has been used for centuries. It is associated with qualities like strength, courage, wisdom, and curiosity, making it a great choice for parents who want to give their child a name with a rich history and meaning.

Lucy Rank in US Top 1000

Barbara name  popular,Gender

This is the more popular name In terms of mobility, Barbara is more of a female name

Famous people

1. Barbara Bush, American, Former First Lady of the United States, A beloved matriarch of the Bush family, Barbara Bush was the wife of the 41st President of the United States, George H.W. Bush. 2. Barbara Walters, American, Journalist and Television Host, Barbara Walters is an iconic journalist and television host who has been a major figure in the media for over five decades. 3. Barbara Streisand, American, Singer and Actress, Barbara Streisand is an award-winning singer and actress who has been a major force in the entertainment industry for over six decades. 4. Barbara Kingsolver, American, Author, Barbara Kingsolver is an acclaimed author whose works explore themes of family, community, and the natural world. 5. Barbara Palvin, Hungarian, Model and Actress, Barbara Palvin is a Hungarian model and actress who has been featured in campaigns for major fashion brands such as L'Oreal and Victoria's Secret.

What do most people think

Most people think that the name Barbara is a classic and timeless name. It is often associated with strong, independent women who are intelligent and kind. It is also seen as a name that is both traditional and modern.

Origin

: The name Barbara is of Latin origin, derived from the Greek word barbaros, which means "foreign." It is also believed to be derived from the Latin word barba, which means "beard."

Names similar

1. Barbe 2. Barbra 3. Babara 4. Barbi 5. Barby 6. Barrie 7. Barnie 8. Barrie 9. Babs 10. Barbie

Suggested Sibling Names (Brothers)

1. William 2. Michael 3. Richard

Suggested Sibling Names (Sisters)

1. Sarah 2. Emma 3. Grace

Related Articles

biblical meaning of the name barbara
christian meaning of name barbara
meaning of the name barbara jean
spiritual meaning of the name barbara
what does the name barbara mean in hebrew
origin of name barbara
meaning name barbara
what does barbara name mean
barbara origin name
barbara pierce bush baby name