Barbara: Name Day, Name Meaning & More

The name Barbara is a timeless classic, steeped in Greek linguistic history and meaning "stranger" or "foreign woman." Its journey through history established it as an immensely popular feminine name globally, particularly reaching peak popularity in the mid-20th century in the USA. The name projects a solid, traditional mood, characterized by elegance and quiet strength. Name days serve as cultural celebrations linked to religious calendars, often honoring specific saints. For Barbara, this observance falls widely on December 4th across numerous countries including Germany, Poland, Spain, and the USA.

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 is a globally recognized classic name with deep historical roots stretching back to early Christianity. In the United States, its popularity soared dramatically during the first half of the 20th century, cementing its place as a quintessential mid-century American name. It consistently ranked among the top ten most common female names from the 1920s through the 1950s. While its usage has declined significantly in recent decades, it remains a common name among older generations globally. Its long history ensures it is widely used across Europe, particularly in countries like Germany, Poland, and Italy, where traditional names maintain strong popularity. This name’s longevity demonstrates its enduring cultural significance across many linguistic traditions.

Name origin and meaning

The name Barbara traces its roots directly to ancient Greek language. It is derived from the word *barbaros*, which originally described anyone who was not Greek. This term was an onomatopoeia meant to mimic the unintelligible sounds of foreign speech. Consequently, the literal meaning assigned to the name is "foreign woman" or "stranger." Despite this historical designation, the name gained widespread reverence through religious traditions across the Roman Empire and medieval Europe.

Name Identity: Gender Classification

Barbara is overwhelmingly classified as a strictly feminine given name throughout the world. There are virtually no established traditions or regions where Barbara is used for males or considered truly unisex. This strong gender assignment is heavily reinforced by its historical association with religious figures and classical use. Even variations of the name, such as Barbora in Czechia or Basia in Polish, remain firmly in the female category. Therefore, globally, Barbara functions exclusively as an identity marker for women.

The Name Effect: Mood, Tone & Personality

The mood associated with Barbara is distinctly traditional, classic, and elegant. It carries a strong, dignified tone, reflecting its long history and established presence in Western culture. While perhaps not viewed as trendy or modern, it conveys a sense of reliability and grounded maturity. The name possesses a weighty historical significance that lends it an atmosphere of seriousness and strength. Overall, Barbara evokes a sophisticated and enduring presence, far removed from modern playful or futuristic vibes.

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 Name of Enduring Elegance

In conclusion, Barbara is a powerful and enduring name originating from the Greek word for "foreigner." Though firmly entrenched as a feminine name, it commands respect due to its deep historical popularity and classic elegance. The name’s strong and traditional mood reflects its centuries of consistent usage across different cultures. Its prominence is highlighted by the widespread observance of the name day on December 4th across nearly all European nations and the United States. Barbara thus remains a significant cultural marker, blending deep history with traditional sophistication.

When Is Your Name Day?

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