a sharp projection near the end of an arrow, fishhook, or similar item, a cutting remark, a beardlike growth on certain animals

feel the barb of something, barb one's words, take the barb out of something

barbed wire, barbed comment, barbed hook

Formal and Informal Expressions of barb

In different contexts, you can replace 'barb' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'spike, jibe' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'dig, taunt' is a commonplace synonym.

barb: Explore its Definition & Usage

barb Definition

1a sharp projection near the end of an arrow, fishhook, or similar item
2a cutting remark
3a beardlike growth on certain animals

Using barb: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "barb" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The barb on the arrowhead made it difficult to remove from the target.
Example
She couldn't resist making a barb about his fashion sense.
Example
The porcupine's barbs are used for self-defense.

barb Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for barb

Antonyms for barb

Idioms Using barb

feel the barb of something
to experience the unpleasant effects of something
Example
He felt the barb of her criticism and became defensive.
barb one's words
to speak in a way that is intentionally hurtful or critical
Example
She tends to barb her words when she's angry.
take the barb out of something
to make something less hurtful or offensive
Example
He tried to take the barb out of his comment by adding a smiley face emoji.

Phrases with barb

barbed wire
a type of fencing wire constructed with sharp edges or points arranged at intervals along the strand(s)
Example
The farmer put up barbed wire around the perimeter of his property.
barbed comment
a cutting or sarcastic remark intended to hurt or offend someone
Example
He couldn't resist making a barbed comment about her weight.
barbed hook
a fishhook with a sharp projection near the end to prevent the fish from escaping once caught
Example
He baited the barbed hook and cast his line into the water.

Origins of barb

from Old French 'barbe', meaning 'beard'

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Summary: barb in Brief

The term 'barb' [bɑːb] refers to a sharp projection on an object, such as an arrow or fishhook, or a cutting remark. It can also refer to a beardlike growth on certain animals. Phrases like 'barbed wire' and 'barbed comment' extend its usage, while idioms like 'feel the barb of something' and 'barb one's words' denote the hurtful or critical nature of the term.