Barb is a unique and distinctive given name of English origin. It is derived from the Old English word "beorht," which means "bright" or "famous." The name was popular among the Anglo-Saxons during the Middle Ages, but it has since become quite rare.
In terms of its history, Barb is believed to have been used as a female given name in the past. However, today it is more commonly associated with men's names due to its short and sharp sound. Some notable figures who bear this name include Barb Jungr, a British jazz singer, and Barb Tarbox, an American artist.
While Barb may not be as widely recognized or popular as many other given names, it still holds a unique charm and significance. Its meaning of "bright" and "famous" could make it an appealing choice for parents looking for a distinctive name with a positive connotation.
"Barb experienced a significant boom in popularity from the mid-1950s to the early 1960s, peaking with 493 births in 1960. However, it quickly declined thereafter, dropping to just 9 births by 1972."