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Barb Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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barb

[bɑːb ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Noun

hair styling

A barb is a sharp point projecting in reverse direction to the main point, designed to prevent easy removal. It is commonly used in hair styling tools such as combs and brushes.

Synonyms

prong, spike, thorn.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
barb

Refers to a pointed part or branch of an object, often used in contexts involving a form of physical object.

  • The barb wire along the fence made it impossible to climb over.
spike

A long, thin, sharp-pointed piece of metal, wood, or other material, often used in contexts of construction, sports, or security.

  • The farmer used the spike to secure the fence.
  • Athletes wear shoes with spikes for better traction.
prong

One of the pointed ends of a fork or other tool with several points, typically used in more neutral and everyday contexts.

  • He stabbed the sausage with the prong of his fork.
  • Make sure the prongs of the plug are aligned properly.
thorn

A sharp, protective spine on a plant, usually used in the context of gardening or describing natural landscapes. It can also be used metaphorically to describe a persistent problem or annoyance.

  • The rose bush was covered in thorns.
  • This issue has been a thorn in my side for weeks.

Examples of usage

  • The barb on the comb helped to detangle my hair.
  • She felt a sharp pain when the barb on the brush caught her hair.
Context #2 | Noun

fishing

In fishing, a barb refers to the backward-facing projection on the shank of a fish hook, designed to prevent the fish from easily escaping once caught.

Synonyms

fish hook barb, hook point.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
barb

Used to describe a sharp projection near the end of a fishing hook or an arrow, designed to make extraction difficult.

  • The barb on the fishing hook caught the fish firmly.
  • Arrows with barbs are more effective in hunting.
hook point

Refers to the pointed end of a hook, which is the part that initially pierces the fish or object.

  • Make sure the hook point is sharp to increase your chances of catching a fish.
  • The hook point needs to be cleaned after each use to maintain its sharpness.
fish hook barb

Specifically relates to the sharp, angled part of a fish hook designed to keep the fish from escaping once it bites.

  • The fish hook barb is essential for ensuring the fish stays on the line.
  • Always check the fish hook barb is intact before casting your line.

Examples of usage

  • The barb on the hook ensured that the fish stayed hooked.
  • You need to be careful when removing the barb from the fish's mouth.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • Certain plants have barbs on their thorns, which can deter animals from eating them.
  • Barbs on fish hooks are designed to keep bait and catch securely attached, showing how design impacts functionality.
  • In animal biology, some species have evolutionary adaptations, like barbed stingers, for defense against predators.

Pop Culture

  • In a famous animated movie, a character uses a fish hook with a barb to teach a lesson about perseverance and determination.
  • Barbs are often represented in cartoons and comics as exaggeratedly sharp weapons, emphasizing their danger.
  • The term has been used metaphorically in lyrics to signify pointed or hurtful remarks in relationships.

Literature

  • In classic literature, barb-like imagery is often used to describe sharp wit or biting criticism among characters.
  • Poets have employed the concept of barbs to evoke feelings of pain or treachery in relationships, portraying the emotional impacts of sharp words.
  • Many stories use barbed arrows as symbols for betrayal or conflict, showcasing their dual nature as tools for both sustenance and harm.

Origin of 'barb'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'barb' comes from the Latin term 'barba,' meaning 'beard,' referring to the projecting parts.
  • Historically, it has been used to describe the sharp points on arrows and fish hooks, emphasizing their function to catch or hold.
  • The term has ancient roots, found in various languages with similar meanings related to sharpness or pointing features.

The word 'barb' originated from the Old French word 'barbe', meaning 'beard' or 'point'. Over time, it evolved to refer to sharp projections or points, used in various contexts such as hair styling and fishing.

See also: bar, barbel, barge, baron, barred, barrel, barrier, bars, rebar.

Word Frequency Rank

At rank #26,094, this word represents specialized academic or technical vocabulary. It's less frequently encountered but may be valuable in specific contexts.