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

As Polly needles her daughter, Brooke — a liberal Long Island novelist, played by Rabe, whose upcoming memoir promises to surface painful family secrets — the barbs start to draw blood. — Thomas Floyd, Washington Post, 23 Oct. 2026

After responding to their most visible attacks, the two candidates traded barbs over a slew of policy issues, including health care, prescription drug prices, tariffs and the ongoing war with Iran. — Kacen Bayless, Kansas City Star, 22 Oct. 2026

While Vision patches himself up from the Paladin fight and suffers through Ultron’s barbs, Paladin patches his own wounds and takes similar guff from his handler. — Tasha Robinson, Vulture, 21 Oct. 2026

Brazil’s presidential candidates traded barbs in the first debate ahead of Sunday’s runoff, with polls showing a technical tie. — semafor.com, 19 Oct. 2026