Varinka / Varvara / Barbara

Varinka is a diminutive form of the Russian name Varvara, which is the Slavic equivalent of Barbara. The name Barbara itself comes from the Greek word 'barbaros', meaning 'foreign' or 'stranger'. The name became popular in early Christian times due to Saint Barbara, a legendary virgin martyr of the 3rd century. In Russia, Varvara has been a traditional and beloved name for centuries, and Varinka emerged as a common affectionate diminutive.