Son of consolation; son of encouragement
Barney is a diminutive of Barnaby, which is the English form of the biblical name Barnabas. It is derived from the Aramaic name Bar-Nabu, often interpreted as 'son of consolation' or 'son of encouragement'. While it was a common nickname in the early 20th century, it is now primarily associated with pop culture figures.
About 5 boys were named Barney in 2025.
US births per 5-year period, 1990–present (SSA data).
Suit-wearing womanizer and protagonist · How I Met Your Mother
Neighbor and best friend of Fred Flintstone · The Flintstones
Friendly purple anthropomorphic T-rex · Barney & Friends
Bumbling deputy sheriff · The Andy Griffith Show
World champion boxer in three weight divisions
Former U.S. Representative from Massachusetts
Pioneer automobile racer and speed record holder
