Barbara is a feminine given name of Latin origin, derived from the male Late Latin name "Barbarus," which was used for people who were non-Roman or foreign. The literal meaning of Barbara is "foreign" or "strange." However, it has also been suggested that the name may have come from the Aramaic word "barbara," meaning "to babble" or "stammer."
The name Barbara became popular in the Middle Ages due to the legend of Saint Barbara. According to the legend, Barbara was a young woman who converted to Christianity against her father's wishes. When her father discovered this, he tried to kill her but was struck by lightning before he could do so. The legend also states that Barbara's name came from the exclamation "Barbara!" made by the soldiers guarding her when they saw her beauty.
The name Barbara has been popular throughout history, particularly in English-speaking countries. It reached its peak popularity in the United States during the 1930s and 1940s but remains a common name today. Famous people named Barbara include actresses Barbara Stanwyck and Barbara Streisand, as well as former First Lady of the United States, Barbara Bush.
In literature, Barbara is also the name of the heroine in Samuel Richardson's novel "Clarissa," published in 1748. The name has been used in various other works of literature and art throughout history. Today, Barbara continues to be a popular choice for parents naming their daughters, with its unique origins and rich historical significance making it a timeless classic.
"The name Barbara had a consistent popularity with an average of about six births per year from 1937 to 1962, peaking at eight births in 1953."