About Barbary
Barbary, the English vernacular form and Manx regular form of Barbara, is a girl's name that has an intriguing origin. In Medieval England, Barbary was a common given name and a short form of Barbara.
Today, the name exists primarily as a surname. It can be derived from Barbara itself or, in French, from the Occitan word barbari, which means "barbarian". Historically, the Barbary Coast referred to the coastline of modern-day Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, and Libya. As such, Barbary was used as a baby name by enslaved people from that region.
Curious about Barbary’s personality analysis? Explore the complete breakdown on our detailed page!
We Think This Name Is...
- Unique: Barbary exudes a sense of uniqueness and intrigue. Its unusual spelling and exotic sound make it a standout choice for those seeking a name that is anything but ordinary.
- Strong: Barbary conveys strength and determination. Its bold syllables and historical association with Barbary pirates suggest a child who is independent, fearless, and ready to make their mark on the world.
Nickname Ideas
- Baba: I love how this tri-syllable nickname rolls off the tongue, and it captures the spunky spirit of the name Barbary.
- Barb: You can't go wrong with the classic, sophisticated sound of Barb. It's short, easy to pronounce, and still retains the essence of the original name.
- Barry: If you're looking for a more gender-neutral option, Barry is a great fit. It shares the same strong, bold characteristics as Barbary.
- Berry: This adorable nickname fits Barbary's unique and quirky personality. It's cute, memorable, and totally on-trend.
- Bara: Bara is a delightful twist on the name that still embodies its adventurous spirit. It's perfect for a little one who loves to explore new things.