Skip to content
TrueNorthBriefQuick, clear answers for curious Canadians
Things

Barbie

What is barbie?

· Sarah Mitchell

Key facts

Type fashion doll[1]
Creator Ruth Handler[1]
Manufacturer Mattel[1]
Introduction date March 9, 1959[1]
Full name Barbara Millicent Roberts[1]
Height 11 inches (29 cm)[2]

Barbie is a fashion doll and franchise created by Ruth Handler, manufactured by Mattel, and introduced on March 9, 1959. She is an 11-inch plastic doll with an adult female figure, originally modeled on the Lilli doll. The brand has expanded into clothes, accessories, video games, and movies.

Context

Barbie is a fashion doll created by Ruth Handler and manufactured by Mattel, first introduced on March 9, 1959 [1]. She is an 11-inch plastic doll with an adult female figure, originally modeled on the Lilli doll from West Germany [2]. The brand has expanded into clothes, accessories, video games, and movies, and Barbie is popular among collectors [3].

Documented claims

  • Barbie was originally modeled on the Lilli doll produced in West Germany from 1955 to 1964. [2]
  • Barbie's franchise has expanded into clothes, fashion accessories, video games, and movies. [3]
  • Barbie is a popular doll among collectors. [3]

Questions and answers

What does Barbie stand for?

Barbie's full name is Barbara Millicent Roberts [1].

How old is the oldest Barbie doll?

The first Barbie was introduced on March 9, 1959 [1].

What does Barbie mean in slang?

The sources do not define slang meanings for Barbie.

Sources

  1. Barbie | History, Dolls, & Facts — britannica.com (retrieved August 3, 2026)
  2. 5 fabulous Barbie facts - BBC Bitesize — bbc.co.uk (retrieved August 3, 2026)
  3. The real history of Barbie - Harper's BAZAAR — harpersbazaar.com (retrieved August 3, 2026)

Sources last checked August 3, 2026. · More in Things