Synonyms of barb

barb

noun

ˈbärb 

as in insult

an act or expression showing scorn and usually intended to hurt another's feelings

delivered one last barb to his ex-girlfriend as he stalked away

Synonyms & Similar Words

• insult
• sarcasm
• outrage
• dart
• indignity
• epithet
• slap
• slur
• poke
• attack
• brickbat
• affront
• slight
• name
• personality
• dis
• offense
• taunt
• criticism
• gibe
• put-down
• disgrace
• cut
• gird
• invective
• sneer
• vituperation
• dig
• quip
• abuse
• jeer
• shame
• mock
• disapproval
• swipe
• opprobrium
• catcall
• dishonor
• torture
• knock
• torment
• slam

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• compliment
• praise
• commendation
• applause
• acclaim
• flattery
• accolade
• adulation

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of barb

The candidates in the crowded field have traded barbs about Bores’ supposed ties to Big Tech and outside groups have poured millions into the race both supporting and opposing his proposals to regulate artificial intelligence. — Dave Goldiner, New York Daily News, 20 June 2026

Mexico were being booed, booed furiously, but even that low rumble failed to drown out the whistles, hurled from the stands of the Estadio Akron with the ferocity and barb of spears. — Jacob Whitehead, New York Times, 19 June 2026

Young, who was traded to the Washington Wizards in January, is no stranger to trading barbs on social media with New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani. — Chantz Martin Outkick, FOXNews.com, 17 June 2026

Always check the rules in conservation trout water and be prepared to mash barbs or swap your treble hooks with single hooks to stay compliant. — Joe Cermele, Outdoor Life, 17 June 2026