\ ˈbärb
\
\
Definition of barb
(Entry 1 of 4)
1
: a medieval cloth headdress passing over or under the chin and covering the neck
2a
: a sharp projection extending backward (as from the point of an arrow or fishhook) and preventing easy extraction
also
: a sharp projection with its point similarly oblique to something else
b
: a biting or pointedly critical remark or comment
3
: barbel entry 2
4
: any of the side branches of the shaft of a feather — see feather illustration
5
: a plant hair or bristle ending in a hook
barb
verb
barbed; barbing; barbs
Definition of barb (Entry 2 of 4)
: to furnish with a barb
barb
noun (2)Definition of barb (Entry 3 of 4)
: any of a northern African breed of horses that are noted for speed and endurance
barb
noun (3)Definition of barb (Entry 4 of 4)
slang
Other Words from barb
Noun (1)
barbless
\
ˈbärb-ləs
\
adjective
\
adjective
Synonyms for barb
Synonyms: Noun (1)
- affront,
- brickbat,
- cut,
- dart,
- dig,
- dis
- (also diss)
- [slang],
- epithet,
- gird,
- indignity,
- insult,
- name,
- offense
- (or offence),
- outrage,
- personality,
- poke,
- put-down,
- sarcasm,
- slap,
- slight,
- slur
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Cite this Entry
“Barb.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/barb. Accessed 25 Jan. 2022.
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More Definitions for barb
barb
noun
\ ˈbärb
\
\
Kids Definition of barb
: a sharp point that sticks out and backward (as from the tip of an arrow or fishhook)
barb
noun
\ ˈbärb
\
\
Medical Definition of barb
slang
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Time Traveler for barb
The first known use of barb was in the 14th century
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