barb
|barb|
B2
🇺🇸
/bɑrb/
🇬🇧
/bɑːb/
sharp projection
Etymology
Etymology Information
'barb' originates from Old French, specifically the word 'barbe,' where 'barbe' meant 'beard' or 'barb.'
Historical Evolution
'barbe' transformed into the Middle English word 'barb,' and eventually became the modern English word 'barb.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'beard' or 'barb,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a sharp projection.'
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a sharp projection near the end of an arrow, fishhook, or similar item, angled away from the main point so as to make extraction difficult.
The barb on the fishhook made it difficult to remove.
Synonyms
Noun 2
a deliberately hurtful remark.
She couldn't help but respond with a barb of her own.
Synonyms
Antonyms
Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:41