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HelpRe: Barbara
in reply to a message by darrengregory
In my experience, British English also drops the middle syllable from Barbara (and from Deborah, and no doubt others) unless the occasion is very formal (like a christening) or highly charged emotionally (Bar-ba-ra! I've told you five times to make your bed and tidy up. Get a move on!).
I like Barbara in the way one likes vintage clothing: interesting, charming even but not for everyday use. Not yet, anyway. Give it time!
I like Barbara in the way one likes vintage clothing: interesting, charming even but not for everyday use. Not yet, anyway. Give it time!
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"Not for everyday use" - I cannot agree more - and I prefer this infrequent use to overt commonality or even popularity. The name means "Foreigner / Stranger / Beautiful Stranger"; so the "everyday use" would familiarize the unique distinction requisitely inherent through its essence, which amplifies through the strength of its sonority: hence, like many names we have short-names, nicknames, and pet names for friends and family.
This message was edited 7/21/2016, 5:56 PM
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