Simple Definition of barnacle

from our Learner's Dictionary

barnacle

noun

plural barnacles
: a kind of small shellfish that attaches itself to rocks and the bottoms of boats underwater

Cite this Entry

“Barnacle.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/barnacle. Accessed 21 Jun. 2026.

More from Merriam-Webster on barnacle

More from Merriam-Webster