Barbara Nielsen

Name meaning, origin and global statistics

Barbara Nielsen — foreign, stranger
1.5 million People worldwide
United States Most common in
1970s Peak popularity
Gender
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Barbara Nielsen is a name that combines Greek origins. The first name Barbara is a feminine given name of Greek origin. From the Greek Barbaros (Βάρβαρος), meaning "foreign." Saint Barbara is one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers. The surname Nielsen: Nielsen (Danish pronunciation: [ˈne̝lsn̩]) is a Danish patronymic surname, literally meaning son of Niels, Niels being the Danish version of the Greek male given name Νικόλαος, Nikolaos (cf. Nicholas). It is the most common surname in Denmark, shared by about 4% of the population, and is also in use in the Faroe Islands. It is also used in Norway, although the forms Nelsen and Nilsen are more common. In Sweden the parallel form is Nilsson. The frequent occurrence of Nielsen as a surname outside Denmark is due to emigration. Barbara is one of the most widespread first names worldwide, carried by approximately 1.5 million people globally, with the highest concentration in United States. The name Barbara reached peak popularity in the 1970s, reflecting the naming trends of that era.

Etymology & Origin

First Name: Barbara

Meaning: foreign, stranger

Greek

From the Greek Barbaros (Βάρβαρος), meaning "foreign." Saint Barbara is one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers.

Surname: Nielsen

Scandinavian

Nielsen (Danish pronunciation: [ˈne̝lsn̩]) is a Danish patronymic surname, literally meaning son of Niels, Niels being the Danish version of the Greek male given name Νικόλαος, Nikolaos (cf. Nicholas). It is the most common surname in Denmark, shared by about 4% of the population, and is also in use in the Faroe Islands. It is also used in Norway, although the forms Nelsen and Nilsen are more common. In Sweden the parallel form is Nilsson. The frequent occurrence of Nielsen as a surname outside Denmark is due to emigration.

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Geographic Distribution

The first name Barbara is distributed across the globe, with the highest concentrations in the following countries:

United States 51%
United Kingdom 22%
Australia 10%
Greece 8%
Canada 10%

Popularity Over Time

Popularity of the name Barbara by decade, based on birth registration data:

1900s
1910s
1920s
1930s
1940s
1950s
1960s
1970s
1980s
1990s
2000s
2010s
2020s
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Notable People Named Barbara Nielsen

People listed above share this name. Listed for informational purposes only. Source: Wikipedia.

Numerology

According to Pythagorean numerology, each letter in a name carries a numerical value. Here are the key numbers for Barbara Nielsen:

4
Expression Number

Stability and hard work. Represents practicality, reliability and dedication — someone who builds solid foundations.

22
Soul Urge Number

Master Builder (Master Number 22). Combines grand vision with the practical ability to achieve lasting, large-scale goals.

9
Personality Number

Compassion and humanitarianism. A generous, idealistic nature with a sincere desire to improve the world.

Numerology is a cultural tradition for exploring symbolism in names. Results are for entertainment purposes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the origin of the first name Barbara?
The first name Barbara originates from Greek. From the Greek Barbaros (Βάρβαρος), meaning "foreign." Saint Barbara is one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers.
When was Barbara most popular?
The name Barbara reached its peak popularity during the 1970s.
What is the origin of the surname Nielsen?
The surname Nielsen originates from Scandinavian. Nielsen (Danish pronunciation: [ˈne̝lsn̩]) is a Danish patronymic surname, literally meaning son of Niels, Niels being the Danish version of the Greek male given name Νικόλαος, Nikolaos (cf. Nicholas). It is the most common surname in Denmark, shared by about 4% of the population, and is also in use in the Faroe Islands. It is also used in Norway, although the forms Nelsen and Nilsen are more common. In Sweden the parallel form is Nilsson. The frequent occurrence of Nielsen as a surname outside Denmark is due to emigration.
What are the origins of the name Barbara Nielsen?
The name Barbara Nielsen combines two different traditions: the first name Barbara has Greek roots, while the surname Nielsen originates from Scandinavian.
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