Holding steady.
Popularity of Barbra since 1882
Babies named Barbra per year in U.S. Social Security records.
Data table (by decade)
| Decade | Girls |
|---|---|
| 1880s | 5 |
| 1890s | 5 |
| 1900s | 5 |
| 1910s | 111 |
| 1920s | 311 |
| 1930s | 720 |
| 1940s | 1,142 |
| 1950s | 1,665 |
| 1960s | 1,890 |
| 1970s | 1,116 |
| 1980s | 514 |
| 1990s | 187 |
| 2000s | 72 |
| 2010s | 15 |
| 2020s | 0 |
Meaning & origin
Barbra is a unique spelling variant of the classic Barbara. While Barbara has been a staple in the United States, the Barbra form remains notably rare. The name first appeared in U.S. records in 1882, but its usage surged in the mid-1960s, reaching a peak in 1966. Since then, it has maintained a stable but very low frequency, never cracking the top 1000. Today, fewer than 5 girls are named Barbra each year, though it remains culturally significant through the fame of performer Barbra Streisand. The name has not historically been concentrated in any particular state.
Barbra is a variant spelling of Barbara, derived from the Greek word barbaros, which referred to non-Greek speakers and originally meant "foreigner" or "stranger." The name gained popularity through the third-century martyr Saint Barbara, and it was widely used across Christian Europe. The spelling Barbra rose to prominence in the United States largely due to the iconic actress and singer Barbra Streisand.
Where Barbra is most popular
Births per 100,000 girls by state. Press play or drag the slider to watch it move across the decades. The lightest shade means too few recorded births.
Nicknames & variants
Nicknames: Barb, Barby, Babs
Sibling names for Barbra
Names that share Barbra's style, for a brother or sister.
