What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
burr
Example
The burrs from the plant got stuck in my socks. [burr: noun]
Example
Be careful, the metal has a burr that could cut your hand. [burr: noun]
Example
The machine made a loud burr as it started up. [burr: noun]
barb
Example
The fishhook had a barb that made it difficult to remove from the fish's mouth. [barb: noun]
Example
Her words were filled with barbs, causing him great emotional pain. [barb: noun]
Example
The warrior's spear had a deadly barb at its tip. [barb: noun]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Burr is more commonly used than barb in everyday language. Burr is often used to describe natural objects, while barb is more specific to man-made objects like hooks or weapons.
Whatโs the difference in the tone of formality between burr and barb?
Both burr and barb are relatively informal words. However, barb can sometimes carry a negative connotation when used to describe hurtful remarks or comments, making it slightly less formal than burr.
