Rising since 2012, #8,910 for boys today.
Popularity of Barak since 1953
Babies named Barak per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Boys |
|---|---|
| 1950s | 10 |
| 1960s | 63 |
| 1970s | 136 |
| 1980s | 151 |
| 1990s | 214 |
| 2000s | 196 |
| 2010s | 90 |
| 2020s | 69 |
Meaning & origin
Barak is a Hebrew name meaning 'lightning,' rooted in the biblical story of a brave commander who, with Deborah, led Israel to victory. Though rare in the United States, ranking 8,910 in 2025 with only 1 in 213,510 births, it saw a peak of modest use in 2006 before experiencing a resurgence in recent years. The name's trajectory shows it has been rising in popularity since 2012, likely influenced by the prominent surname of President Barack Obama. Despite its biblical origins, Barak remains an uncommon choice, appealing to parents seeking a strong, historically significant name with a modern feel.
Barak is a Hebrew name derived from the biblical root בָּרָק (bārāq) meaning 'lightning.' In the Hebrew Bible, Barak was a military commander who, alongside the prophetess Deborah, led the Israelites to victory over the Canaanite general Sisera. The name has been used among Jews and Christians for centuries, and in modern times gained political prominence through former Israeli Prime Minister Ehud Barak. It is also a given name in the United States, where its usage spiked around the time of President Barack Obama's election, though spelled with a 'c.'
Nicknames & variants
Variants: Barack
Sibling names for Barak
Names that share Barak's style, for a brother or sister.
