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Barren
Pronounced BAIR-un /ˈbɛr.ən/High
Meaning: As spelled, Barren is the English word barren — 'unable to bear fruit, crops, or children; bleak; empty.' Families should know that plainly. It is very likely intended instead as a respelling of Baron or Barron, the title and surname meaning 'nobleman; a rank of nobility.' We state both routes honestly so families can choose with open eyes.Low
Popularity in the U.S. · SSA data
U.S. births per year (Social Security Administration, 1880–present). Pink marker = peak year.
SSA data updated May 2026. How we source & verify this data.
History & Origin
Barren, as spelled, is the English word 'barren' — unable to bear fruit, crops, or children; bleak or empty. That is worth stating clearly and without judgment, because the spelling carries that meaning to any reader who knows the word. In practice the name is almost certainly a respelling of Baron or Barron, the title and surname for a rank of nobility, which came into English from Old French. Both routes are honest, and families should choose knowing exactly what the spelling says (said 'BAIR-un').
It appears only very rarely in the U.S. Rare, and worth a second look at the spelling.
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Frequently Asked
What does the name Barren mean?
As spelled, Barren is the English word meaning 'unable to bear fruit, crops, or children.' It is most likely intended as a respelling of Baron or Barron, the noble title. We state both plainly.
How do you pronounce Barren?
It's said BAIR-un /ˈbɛr.ən/ — two syllables, stress on the first.
Is Barren a boy or girl name?
Barren is used here as a boy's name.
How popular is Barren?
Barren is a very rare name in the U.S.