Barney

Barney is a diminutive of Barnabas, from the Aramaic Bar-Nabbi meaning "son of prophecy" or "son of encouragement" — the same name as the biblical companion of Paul. In modern pop culture, Barney is associated with Barney Rubble of The Flintstones and Barney the Dinosaur of the beloved children's series. Both associations — the lovable sidekick and the purple, singing dinosaur who loves unconditionally — give Barney a warmth and humor that pet owners find completely charming. It's the name of the companion who is always glad to see you.

Barney holds #308 on the pet name charts and carries two powerful pop culture associations: the lovable neighbor from The Flintstones and the purple dinosaur who made generations of children feel deeply, unconditionally loved. Both Barneys share essential qualities — warmth, loyalty, an eagerness to please, and an endearing lack of sophistication that makes them impossible not to love. Barney suits a companion who greets every day with simple, unironic joy, who is everyone's friend, and whose devotion to their family is total and uncomplicated. Barney is a name of pure, wholesome affection.