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
Idioms Using barb
Example
He felt the barb of her criticism and became defensive.
Example
She tends to barb her words when she's angry.
Example
He tried to take the barb out of his comment by adding a smiley face emoji.
Phrases with barb
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.
Example
He couldn't resist making a barbed comment about her weight.
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'
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.
