Varvara

Meaning of Varvara

The name Varvara is a feminine name of Greek origin, pronounced as vahr-VAH-rah. It is the Greek and Russian form of Barbara, which means "foreign" or "stranger." This name has historical and cultural significance in various Eastern European countries, especially within Greek and Russian communities. In these cultures, Varvara is often associated with Saint Barbara, a revered early Christian martyr who is considered the patron saint of artillerymen and miners. Despite its rich heritage, Varvara remains relatively uncommon in the United States. Over the past few decades, it has seen sporadic use with occurrences ranging from 5 to 17 newborns per year. The name's unique sound and cultural depth make it an intriguing choice for parents seeking a distinctive yet meaningful name for their daughter.

Pronunciation

Greek

  • Pronunced as vahr-VAH-rah (/vaʁ.ˈva.ɾa/)

Russian

  • Pronunced as vahr-VAH-rah (/вахˈвара/)

U.S. Popularity Chart

Notable People Named Varvara

Varvara Petrivna Lepchenko is an Uzbekistani-born American tennis player of Ukrainian descent, known for her success on the WTA Challenger Tour and ITF Women's Circuit.
Varvara Nikolaevna Yakovleva was a prominent Bolshevik party member and Soviet government official who was sentenced to 20 years in prison and later executed for her involvement in a "diversionary terrorist organization."
Varvara, also known as "Barbara", is a Russian ethno-pop singer.
Varvara Sergeyevna Myasnikova was a Soviet actress known for her contributions to the Russian film industry.
Princess Varvara Ilynichna Turkestanova was a Russian noblewoman known for her affair with Tsar Alexander I of Russia and her correspondence with Ferdinand Christin, and she tragically committed suicide after giving birth to a daughter.
Varvara Ivanovna Alexandrova was a Russian revolutionary and populist.
Varvara Aleksandrovna Popova was a prominent Soviet stage and film actress known for her roles in early silent films and character roles in the 1960s, often portraying grandmothers and peasant women.
Varvara Alekseyevna Baranova is a Russian canoeist who competed in the women's K-2 500 metres event at the 2020 Summer Olympics.
Julia Bancroft
Curated byJulia Bancroft

Assistant Editor