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.
The statistics provided show the annual number of births with the name Barb in the United States from 1938 to 1972. During this period, there was a significant increase in the popularity of the name Barb, peaking in 1960 with 493 births.
From 1938 to 1956, the number of babies named Barb remained relatively low, ranging from 6 to 128 births per year. However, starting in 1957, there was a notable rise in popularity, with over 290 babies named Barb born that year alone.
The name Barb reached its zenith in 1960, with nearly 500 babies receiving the name. This high level of popularity persisted for several years afterward, with over 450 births each year from 1959 to 1962. However, by 1972, the popularity of the name Barb had significantly declined, with only 9 recorded births that year.
In total, there were 3853 babies named Barb born in the United States between 1938 and 1972. These statistics illustrate the fluctuating trends in naming practices over time and highlight the peak popularity of the name Barb during the late 1950s and early 1960s.