The name Barret has its origins in the Old French language, deriving from the word "barre" which meant a barrier or a gate. It emerged during the Middle Ages, around the 12th century, and was initially used as a surname for those who lived near or worked at a gate or barrier.

During the medieval period, the name Barret was found in various regions of France, particularly in the northern and central parts of the country. It was also present in neighboring regions such as Normandy and Brittany, where similar variations like "Barré" and "Barrette" were used.

One of the earliest recorded instances of the name Barret can be traced back to a 13th-century French nobleman, Hugues Barret, who served as a knight and participated in the Crusades. Another historical figure bearing this name was Jean Barret, a 15th-century French scholar and theologian known for his contributions to the study of canon law.

As the name spread across Europe, it gained prominence in various countries. In England, for example, one notable figure was Sir John Barret, a 16th-century naval commander who served under Queen Elizabeth I and played a role in the Anglo-Spanish War. Another English bearer of the name was William Barret, a 17th-century clergyman and author who wrote several religious works.

In the United States, the name Barret has been present since the colonial era. One of the earliest recorded individuals with this name was Samuel Barret, a 17th-century settler who arrived in Massachusetts Bay Colony in the 1630s. During the American Revolutionary War, John Barret was a patriot and militiaman who participated in the Battles of Lexington and Concord in 1775.

Other notable individuals named Barret throughout history include Sir Thomas Barret, an 18th-century British naval officer who served during the American Revolutionary War; William Barret, a 19th-century Irish poet and playwright known for his works exploring Irish culture and folklore; and Charles Barret, a 20th-century American businessman and philanthropist who founded the Barret Manufacturing Company.