barbed

adjective

ˈbärbd 

1

: having barbs

2

: characterized by pointed and biting criticism or sarcasm

barbed witticisms

Synonyms of barbed

• satiric
• sarcastic
• acidic
• acid
• biting

Examples of barbed in a Sentence

The candidates exchanged barbed comments during the debate.

barbed satire on American academia

Recent Examples on the Web

These prickly hairs are for protection, with barbed ends that easily penetrate the skin of predators or your hand. — Markis Hill, Kansas City Star, 26 July 2026

The confrontation between father and daughter, in which Taylor-Joy unloads Lucky’s resentments about growing up in the life, is one of the season’s most barbed moments. — Roxana Hadadi, Vulture, 15 July 2026

But his view of Adrian’s methods, goals, and way of life end up making the bond of mentorship both tenuous and barbed. — Richard Brody, New Yorker, 10 July 2026

Meanwhile, McGrew agreed to adjustments, including adding baffles to reduce sound from a attached generator for the tower and replacing tower fencing that incorporated barbed wire with taller, more natural looking fencing. — Olivia Stevens, Chicago Tribune, 9 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1611, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing barbed

• barbed wire

Rhymes for barbed

• garbed