Barbara: Name Day, Name Meaning & More

Name days are traditional celebrations observed primarily in European and Latin American cultures, often honoring the saint associated with a given name. The name Barbara, steeped in history and characterized by a sturdy, classic mood, has maintained a notable presence worldwide. Derived from ancient terms meaning "foreign," this distinctly female name enjoyed peak American popularity mid-century. Barbara's traditional observance falls on December 4th in many countries, including the USA, marking a significant cultural commemoration. This celebrated name blends vintage appeal with inherent strength and classical origins.

Name Day: Dates by Country

Barbara's name day is celebrated on December 4 in Austria, Croatia, Denmark, Estonia, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Latvia, Norway, Poland, Spain (Bárbara), Sweden, Ukraine and the USA.

The Story Behind This Name

Barbara enjoyed significant popularity in the United States throughout the 20th century. It peaked dramatically, consistently ranking in the Top 10 names for girls from the 1920s through the 1950s. The name was so common during this highly utilized period that it defines a classic generational name. However, its usage began a steady decline starting in the 1960s, reflecting a shift towards newer naming trends. Today, while still recognized universally, Barbara is used much more sparingly, lending it a slightly vintage feel in modern American birth records.

Name origin and meaning

Barbara is derived from a classical Greek adjective which describes its fundamental identity. This adjective, *barbaros*, historically described those who were foreign or non-Greek. The term essentially referred to anyone whose speech sounded unintelligible, often rendered as "bar-bar" to the ancient Greek ear. Over time, the name was adopted into Latin, specifically becoming popularized through early Christian reverence and hagiography. Therefore, the name fundamentally conveys the concept of being a stranger or someone from a different land.

Name Identity: Gender Classification

Globally, Barbara is overwhelmingly recognized and classified as a distinctly feminine name. Its long history and traditional use across European and Western cultures firmly established it as solely female. There are very few, if any, known widespread uses of Barbara as a male given name in common practice. Regional variations, such as the Polish diminutive *Basia* or the Hungarian form *Borbála*, also maintain this strict feminine designation. Consequently, worldwide, the name Barbara presents a near-universal gender identity as female.

The Name Effect: Mood, Tone & Personality

The name Barbara evokes a tone that is simultaneously classic and robust, suggesting historical significance. It carries a mature and grounded vibe, often suggesting a personality that is traditional yet inherently strong. The mood is not inherently playful but leans toward sophisticated elegance and reliability due to its historical prevalence. Because of its peak popularity in the mid-20th century, it often feels familiar and trustworthy to many generations. Therefore, the name resonates with a stable, dependable, and somewhat formal atmosphere.

Unlocking the Hidden Meaning of Name: Barbara

Your name is more than just a label - it holds a unique energy that influences your personality, destiny, and life path. Through numerology and astrology, we uncover the deeper meanings behind your name, revealing your strengths, challenges, and the energy you bring into the world.

Pythagorean Numerology: The Hidden Meaning of Name

Destiny number: 7 – The Seeker.
Keywords: Introspection, wisdom, spirituality, knowledge, analytical thinking.
Positive Traits: Deep thinker, philosophical, intuitive, intellectual, private.
Challenges: Can be aloof, secretive, or overly skeptical.
Life Path Meaning: A spiritual and intellectual journey of deep self-discovery.

Chaldean Numerology: Name Energy and Spiritual Insights

First name number: 11 - The Visionary.
Highly spiritual, intuitive, inspiring, and a natural guide for others.
Can struggle with anxiety, sensitivity, or self-doubt.

The Cosmic Secret Code: What The Name Says About You

The name is linked to the planet that governs it, shaping the name's meaning and influencing the traits associated with it.
Planet: Neptune - Spirituality, Dreams, Creativity.
Neptune is the planet of mysticism, dreams, and intuition. Names ruled by Neptune tend to belong to highly imaginative, artistic, and spiritually attuned individuals. These names reflect deep emotional sensitivity, creativity, and an affinity for the unseen or mystical. People with Neptune-ruled names are often drawn to artistic and spiritual pursuits.

Name days: Name Barbara

This list shows name days in different countries where the name is written in the same form. The dates are based on traditional calendars and cultural name celebrations. If your name matches exactly, you can see when it is honored in various parts of the world.

Country	Month	Day	Name days
Austria	December	4	Adolf, Barbara, Johannes
Croatia	December	4	Barbara, Ivan Damašcanski
Denmark	December	4	Barbara
Estonia	December	4	Barba, Barbara, Parba, Varje, Varju, Varve
France	December	4	Barbara
Germany	December	4	Barbara
Greece	December	4	Barbara, Varvara
Hungary	December	4	Barbara, Borbála
Latvia	December	4	Baiba, Barba, Barbara
Norway	December	4	Barbara, Barbro
Poland	December	4	Barbara, Berno, Biernat, Chrystian, Hieronim, Krystian, Piotr
Spain	December	4	Bárbara
Sweden	December	4	Barbara, Barbro
Ukraine	December	4	Barbara
USA	December	4	Ada, Adah, Adina, Aida, Babette, Barbara, Barbie, Barbra, Osman, Osmond

Barbara: A Classic Name of Strength and Elegance

In conclusion, Barbara is a powerful feminine name whose history in the USA peaked significantly during the 20th century, offering a definitive vintage sound today. Its origin links back to the Greek concept of being a foreigner, lending it a classical depth rather than a modern flair. The mood associated with Barbara is one of classic elegance, dependability, and substantial strength. Universally classified as female, its heritage is commemorated annually through the name day celebration held on December 4th. Barbara remains a sturdy, well-recognized name bridging classical history and mid-century Americana.

When Is Your Name Day?

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