US Popularity Rank: 26265

Origin: Slavic

Meaning: Strong as a bear; Defender

Despite dominating the charts for over a hundred years, the boy's name Barney is now delightfully rare. It's rooted in the British names Barnaby and Bernard, meaning "strong as a bear," and Slavic Barnim, meaning "defender." Back when the Normans migrated to England, the Old German word bern combined with hart, forming the more whimsical Beornheard. This timeless pick has been capturing hearts ever since. Nowadays, Barney is synonymous with every 90s kid's first teacher, TV's purple dinosaur on Barney & Friends. Your little Barney may grow up to be a bear of a leader, always taking charge and roaring with confidence. And when they get a little grizzly, just remind them of the strength and power that their name represents!