Barnaby: Name Meaning, Origin, and Popularity

Pronunciation: BAHR-nÉ™-bee
Origin: England
gender-male

Emmy Samtani

Emmy Samtani

Emmy is the founder of Kiindred and mother to 3 little ones. Over the last 4 years, she has worked with some of the most credible experts in the parenting space and is a keen contributor on all things parenthood.
Updated on Jul 01, 2025 · 1 min read
Region Origin: English
Meaning: Barnaby means "son of consolation" or "son of the prophet."

Barnaby is a masculine name with deep historical and cultural roots. Derived from the medieval English form of the name Barnabas, it has biblical origins, with Saint Barnabas being a notable figure in the New Testament as an early Christian disciple. The name carries connotations of encouragement and prophecy, as Barnabas was known as the "son of consolation." In modern times, Barnaby has been embraced in various forms of media and culture. For instance, Barnaby Jones was a popular character portrayed by Buddy Ebsen in the television series "Barnaby Jones," which aired in the 1970s and 1980s. This character contributed to the name's association with intelligence and determination. Additionally, the name has appeared in numerous literary works, often embodying whimsical or adventurous characters. Barnaby's charm lies in its classic yet distinctive sound, appealing to those who appreciate traditional names with a unique twist. Its timeless appeal continues to make it a favored choice among parents seeking a name with historical significance and cultural resonance.

Barnaby Name Popularity Data

chat-overall Barnaby is currently #25785 in the popularity of the name rankings.
gender-female Boy: Barnaby is currently #11085 on Kiindred Boy Names

Popularity Trend Chart

Source: Social Security Administration

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