Barabás

Boy Name
Origin:aramaic
Pronunciation:/ˈbɑːrəˌbɑːs/

Barabás: a male name of Aramaic origin meaning "This name derives from the Aramaic, written in Hebrew “bar naviya’” (Ancient Greek: Barnabâs’ Βαρναβᾶς’), meaning “the son (of the) prophet". It derives from the Aramaic word "bar naḇyā > bar naviya' > Barnabâs".

Barabás has maintained its appeal as a masculine name in modern times while preserving its Aramaic roots. Today, parents are drawn to its meaningful essence of "This name derives from the Aramaic, written in Hebrew “bar naviya’” (Ancient Greek: Barnabâs’ Βαρναβᾶς’), meaning “the son (of the) prophet" and its cultural richness. This name bridges traditional heritage with contemporary naming trends.

Quick Facts About Barabás

Quick facts about Barabás
OriginAramaic
GenderBoy name
PopularityModerately popular

Researched by Name Doctor Linguistics Team

Our names are verified by professional linguists with expertise in etymology and cultural naming traditions.

Last reviewed: November 2025

Meaning

This name derives from the Aramaic, written in Hebrew “bar naviya’” (Ancient Greek: Barnabâs’ Βαρναβᾶς’), meaning “the son (of the) prophet.” Barnabas, born Joseph, was an early Christian, one of the earliest Christian disciples in Jerusalem. Barnabas appears mainly in Acts, a Christian history of the early Christian church. He also appears in several of Paul’s epistles). According to tradition, the feast day is celebrated on June 11 in memory of Saint Barnabas the Apostle, the first bishop of Milan. On September 7, it also recalls the Blessed Claudio Barnabas Laurent de Mascloux, one of the Hulks of Rochefort’s martyrs.

Etymology & Details

Name Root

bar naḇyā > bar naviya' > Barnabâs

How to Pronounce Barabás

Barabás is pronounced /ˈbɑːrəˌbɑːs/(English)

Step-by-step pronunciation guide:

  1. Break it into syllables: Bar-abás
  2. Say it like: "BAHROOHBAHS"
  3. Practice saying it naturally a few times

Pronunciation verified by linguistic sources

Usage & Popularity

Barabás is predominantly used in hungarian (magyar) speaking communities, where it maintains strong cultural connections and traditional significance.

hungarian (magyar)
Name Relationships

Barabás is a variant form of Barnabás, developed through regional pronunciation differences and linguistic evolution. This variation preserves the essential meaning while offering a unique sound.

Frequently Asked Questions About Barabás
What does the name Barabás mean?
Barabás means "This name derives from the Aramaic, written in Hebrew “bar naviya’” (Ancient Greek: Barnabâs’ Βαρναβᾶς’), meaning “the son (of the) prophet.” Barnabas, born Joseph, was an early Christian, one of the earliest Christian disciples in Jerusalem. Barnabas appears mainly in Acts, a Christian history of the early Christian church. He also appears in several of Paul’s epistles). According to tradition, the feast day is celebrated on June 11 in memory of Saint Barnabas the Apostle, the first bishop of Milan. On September 7, it also recalls the Blessed Claudio Barnabas Laurent de Mascloux, one of the Hulks of Rochefort’s martyrs.". The name comes from bar naḇyā > bar naviya' > Barnabâs. In its original form, the name derives from bar naviya' (בּר נביא) Barnabâs (Βαρναβᾶς). This aramaic name has been passed down through generations, carrying its meaning across different cultures and time periods. Parents who choose Barabás for boys often connect with the name's meaning of "This name derives from the Aramaic, written in Hebrew “bar naviya’” (Ancient Greek: Barnabâs’ Βαρναβᾶς’), meaning “the son (of the) prophet.” Barnabas, born Joseph, was an early Christian, one of the earliest Christian disciples in Jerusalem. Barnabas appears mainly in Acts, a Christian history of the early Christian church. He also appears in several of Paul’s epistles). According to tradition, the feast day is celebrated on June 11 in memory of Saint Barnabas the Apostle, the first bishop of Milan. On September 7, it also recalls the Blessed Claudio Barnabas Laurent de Mascloux, one of the Hulks of Rochefort’s martyrs." as a quality they hope to see in their child. While not the most common choice, Barabás's meaningful roots have given it staying power among parents looking for a name with substance. The name is associated with qualities like BIBLICAL / RELIGION (BISHOPS) / RELIGION (SAINTS), reflecting its meaning in how people perceive those who carry it.
What is the origin of the name Barabás?
Barabás is a aramaic name. The name traces back to bar naḇyā > bar naviya' > Barnabâs. The original form bar naviya' (בּר נביא) Barnabâs (Βαρναβᾶς) shows the name's roots in its native language. The name remains closely tied to hungarian (magyar) naming traditions while occasionally appearing in other cultures. The aramaic meaning "This name derives from the Aramaic, written in Hebrew “bar naviya’” (Ancient Greek: Barnabâs’ Βαρναβᾶς’), meaning “the son (of the) prophet.” Barnabas, born Joseph, was an early Christian, one of the earliest Christian disciples in Jerusalem. Barnabas appears mainly in Acts, a Christian history of the early Christian church. He also appears in several of Paul’s epistles). According to tradition, the feast day is celebrated on June 11 in memory of Saint Barnabas the Apostle, the first bishop of Milan. On September 7, it also recalls the Blessed Claudio Barnabas Laurent de Mascloux, one of the Hulks of Rochefort’s martyrs." reflects values important in the culture where this name first appeared. Barabás developed as a form of Barnabás, adapting over time while keeping its connection to the original name.
Is Barabás a boy or girl name?
Barabás is a boy's name. The name has been used for boys across many generations, maintaining its masculine character through different eras and cultures. In aramaic tradition, Barabás has historically been given to boys. The meaning "This name derives from the Aramaic, written in Hebrew “bar naviya’” (Ancient Greek: Barnabâs’ Βαρναβᾶς’), meaning “the son (of the) prophet.” Barnabas, born Joseph, was an early Christian, one of the earliest Christian disciples in Jerusalem. Barnabas appears mainly in Acts, a Christian history of the early Christian church. He also appears in several of Paul’s epistles). According to tradition, the feast day is celebrated on June 11 in memory of Saint Barnabas the Apostle, the first bishop of Milan. On September 7, it also recalls the Blessed Claudio Barnabas Laurent de Mascloux, one of the Hulks of Rochefort’s martyrs." carries well for a son, giving the name lasting appeal.
How do you pronounce Barabás?
Barabás is pronounced "/ˈbɑːrəˌbɑːs/". This pronunciation follows en language patterns. As a single-syllable name, Barabás is quick to say and easy to call out. If you're unfamiliar with aramaic names, listening to a native speaker say Barabás can help you catch the right rhythm and emphasis. The name's root bar naḇyā > bar naviya' > Barnabâs influences how Barabás sounds in its original language.
How popular is the name Barabás?
Barabás is somewhat common, familiar to most people. With moderate popularity, Barabás offers familiarity without being everywhere. It's the kind of name people recognize but don't hear every day. Barabás's popularity may vary between aramaic communities and the broader population, where naming trends differ. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Aramaic, written in Hebrew “bar naviya’” (Ancient Greek: Barnabâs’ Βαρναβᾶς’), meaning “the son (of the) prophet.” Barnabas, born Joseph, was an early Christian, one of the earliest Christian disciples in Jerusalem. Barnabas appears mainly in Acts, a Christian history of the early Christian church. He also appears in several of Paul’s epistles). According to tradition, the feast day is celebrated on June 11 in memory of Saint Barnabas the Apostle, the first bishop of Milan. On September 7, it also recalls the Blessed Claudio Barnabas Laurent de Mascloux, one of the Hulks of Rochefort’s martyrs." likely influences its appeal, as parents often choose names that express values or hopes for their children. Among boys' names, Barabás holds its own, appealing to parents who value distinctive options.
What are variations of the name Barabás?
Barabás is a form of Barnabás. Over time, Barnabás developed into several variations, with Barabás emerging as a distinct form used in certain regions or languages. In aramaic tradition, these variations allow the core name to work across different contexts while maintaining its character. All variations preserve the meaning "This name derives from the Aramaic, written in Hebrew “bar naviya’” (Ancient Greek: Barnabâs’ Βαρναβᾶς’), meaning “the son (of the) prophet.” Barnabas, born Joseph, was an early Christian, one of the earliest Christian disciples in Jerusalem. Barnabas appears mainly in Acts, a Christian history of the early Christian church. He also appears in several of Paul’s epistles). According to tradition, the feast day is celebrated on June 11 in memory of Saint Barnabas the Apostle, the first bishop of Milan. On September 7, it also recalls the Blessed Claudio Barnabas Laurent de Mascloux, one of the Hulks of Rochefort’s martyrs.", so choosing between them comes down to sound preference and cultural fit rather than different meanings. Parents drawn to Barabás might also consider these related forms, especially if they want options for siblings or prefer a more traditional or modern feel. In hungarian (magyar), Barabás may be more or less common than its variations, depending on local naming customs.
Where is the name Barabás commonly used?
Barabás is used primarily in hungarian (magyar) naming traditions. Though aramaic in origin, Barabás found a home in other cultures where it resonated with local naming preferences. The meaning "This name derives from the Aramaic, written in Hebrew “bar naviya’” (Ancient Greek: Barnabâs’ Βαρναβᾶς’), meaning “the son (of the) prophet.” Barnabas, born Joseph, was an early Christian, one of the earliest Christian disciples in Jerusalem. Barnabas appears mainly in Acts, a Christian history of the early Christian church. He also appears in several of Paul’s epistles). According to tradition, the feast day is celebrated on June 11 in memory of Saint Barnabas the Apostle, the first bishop of Milan. On September 7, it also recalls the Blessed Claudio Barnabas Laurent de Mascloux, one of the Hulks of Rochefort’s martyrs." carries universal appeal, helping explain why different cultures adopted Barabás into their naming traditions. A child named Barabás will likely find their name recognized in multiple countries, which can be an advantage for families with international connections or who value global accessibility. Across these cultures, Barabás is given to boys, maintaining consistent gender association.
What is the cultural significance of Barabás?
Barabás carries associations with BIBLICAL / RELIGION (BISHOPS) / RELIGION (SAINTS). These qualities shape how people perceive the name and those who carry it, creating expectations and first impressions. The name's meaning of "This name derives from the Aramaic, written in Hebrew “bar naviya’” (Ancient Greek: Barnabâs’ Βαρναβᾶς’), meaning “the son (of the) prophet.” Barnabas, born Joseph, was an early Christian, one of the earliest Christian disciples in Jerusalem. Barnabas appears mainly in Acts, a Christian history of the early Christian church. He also appears in several of Paul’s epistles). According to tradition, the feast day is celebrated on June 11 in memory of Saint Barnabas the Apostle, the first bishop of Milan. On September 7, it also recalls the Blessed Claudio Barnabas Laurent de Mascloux, one of the Hulks of Rochefort’s martyrs." reinforces these associations, connecting the literal translation to the character traits people expect. In aramaic culture, where Barabás originates, these qualities held particular value, making the name a way to express hopes for a child's character. Research shows that names do influence perceptions. People form impressions based on names before meeting someone, which means choosing Barabás sets certain expectations. Parents choosing Barabás often connect with one or more of these associations, selecting the name because it represents qualities they value or wish for their child. In hungarian (magyar) communities, these associations may carry extra weight, as naming traditions often reinforce cultural values.

Sources: Etymology verified through linguistic research including Oxford Dictionary of First Names, Behind the Name, and academic etymology databases.

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