Barbara vs Karen
Choosing between Barbara and Karen? Compare meanings, origins, and popularity trends to find the perfect baby name.
Barbara
Gender: boy
Origin: Greek
Meaning: Foreign, strange
Peak: 1938 (3.44%)
Karen
Gender: boy
Origin: Danish
Meaning: Pure
Peak: 1956 (1.94%)
Popularity Comparison
| Year | Barbara | Karen |
|---|---|---|
| 1880 | 0.13% | - |
| 1890 | 0.12% | 0.01% |
| 1900 | 0.11% | - |
| 1910 | 0.15% | - |
| 1920 | 0.41% | - |
| 1930 | 1.57% | 0.01% |
| 1940 | 3.11% | 0.62% |
| 1950 | 2.36% | 1.37% |
| 1960 | 1.18% | 1.75% |
| 1970 | 0.44% | 0.91% |
| 1980 | 0.14% | 0.28% |
| 1990 | 0.07% | 0.13% |
| 2000 | 0.03% | 0.11% |
Parents Also Consider
FAQ
Is Barbara or Karen more popular?
Barbara has historically been more popular. Barbara peaked in 1938 while Karen peaked in 1956.
What is the meaning of Barbara?
Barbara means "Foreign, strange" and has Greek origins.
What is the meaning of Karen?
Karen means "Pure" and has Danish origins.
Can Barbara and Karen be used as sibling names?
Barbara and Karen can work well as sibling names. They come from different origins, giving a diverse feel.