Barbaric: meaning, definitions and examples

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barbaric

[bɑːˈbɛrɪk ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Adjective}

describing behavior

Characterized by savagery and lack of civilization; brutal and cruel.

Synonyms

brutal, cruel, savage, uncivilized.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
barbaric	This term is often used to describe actions or behaviors that are extremely cruel or primitive. It can have a negative connotation, implying lack of civilization or refinement. The treatment of prisoners in the camp was barbaric Such barbaric practices have no place in modern society
savage	This term is often used to describe fierce, violent, and uncontrolled behavior. Can be used negatively to describe someone as being wild or lacking in civilization. The savage attack left the village in ruins She had a savage determination to win
uncivilized	Refers to behaviors or practices that are considered wild, primitive, or lacking in cultural refinement. It is often used in a negative sense to suggest a lack of societal norms. He considered their customs uncivilized and outdated The expedition encountered tribesmen who were considered uncivilized by outsiders
brutal	Use when referring to actions or events that are harsh, severe, or violent. It emphasizes physical violence and cruelty. The attack was brutal, leaving many injured She endured a brutal training regimen to prepare for the competition
cruel	Describes actions or behaviors that cause suffering or pain, and suggests a lack of empathy or kindness. It has a strong negative connotation. It was cruel to abandon the puppy The cruel comments made him feel worthless

Examples of usage

The barbaric invaders destroyed the village and killed many innocent people.
The barbaric treatment of prisoners of war was condemned by human rights organizations.
His barbaric behavior towards animals raised concerns among animal rights activists.

^{Context #2 | Adjective}

describing customs or traditions

Relating to or characteristic of barbarians; uncivilized, primitive.

Synonyms

primitive, savage, uncivilized.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
barbaric	Used to describe actions or behaviors that are very cruel and brutal. It often implies a lack of civilization and is typically negative. The attack on the village was barbaric His methods were deemed barbaric by modern standards
uncivilized	Used to describe people, actions, or societies that lack cultural, social, or moral development. It often carries a judgmental tone and is negative. The explorers thought the indigenous people were uncivilized His uncivilized behavior shocked everyone at the dinner party
primitive	Refers to early stages of development or describes something that is basic and not technologically advanced. It is often used in an anthropological or historical context and does not necessarily have a negative connotation. The tools found at the site were primitive The tribe lived in a primitive society, relying on hunting and gathering
savage	Describes actions or behaviors that are fierce, violent, and uncontrolled. It has a negative connotation and can also describe a person who is perceived as uncivilized or wild. The battle was fought with savage intensity The movie portrayed pirates as savage and ruthless people

Examples of usage

The tribe had a barbaric custom of sacrificing animals during their religious ceremonies.
In some ancient cultures, barbaric rituals were performed to appease the gods.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'barbaric' comes from the Greek word 'barbaros', which was originally used to describe someone who spoke a language that Greeks couldn't understand.
In ancient Rome, 'barbarus' referred to outsiders, especially those from different cultures, suggesting a divide between the familiar and the alien.
The term evolved over time, implying more than just language differences, often linking to ideas of savagery and lack of culture.

Historical Perspectives

Throughout history, various societies labeled their enemies as 'barbaric' to justify their own actions during conflicts.
The so-called 'barbaric' tribes in Europe during the Middle Ages often had complex social structures, contrary to the simplistic interpretations of the era.
The use of 'barbaric' in colonial contexts often reflected prejudices that dismissed the rich cultures of Indigenous peoples.

Cultural References

In popular culture, the term surfaces in literature and films to depict savage characters or societies, such as in stories of ancient warriors and tribes.
The concept of 'barbaric' is often explored in fantasy genres, where characters confront civilizations perceived as savages versus the so-called 'civilized' ones.
Renaissance art sometimes depicted 'barbaric' figures to contrast the European Renaissance ideals of beauty and civilization.

Psychology

Labeling certain behaviors as 'barbaric' can stem from cultural biases, influencing how actions are interpreted depending on societal norms.
The perception of barbarism can influence group identity, reinforcing in-group and out-group mentalities during social conflicts.
Studies suggest that viewing others as 'barbaric' can dehumanize them, making it easier for groups to justify aggression or discrimination.

Literature

Famous works like Joseph Conrad's 'Heart of Darkness' explore themes of civilization versus barbarism, challenging the idea of one being superior to the other.
The word often appears in Shakespeare's plays to denote uncivilized behavior, illustrating the contrast between different ways of life.
Literature from various cultures reinterprets the idea of 'barbaric', suggesting that what constitutes civilization can be subjective and culturally specific.

Translations

Translations of the word "barbaric" in other languages:

🇵🇹 bárbaro

🇮🇳 बर्बर

🇩🇪 barbarisch

🇮🇩 barbar

🇺🇦 варварський

🇵🇱 barbarzyński

🇯🇵 野蛮な (yaban na)

🇫🇷 barbare

🇪🇸 bárbaro

🇹🇷 barbar

🇰🇷 야만적인 (yamanjeogin)

🇸🇦 وحشي

🇨🇿 barbarský

🇸🇰 barbarský

🇨🇳 野蛮的 (yěmán de)

🇸🇮 barbarski

🇮🇸 barbarískur

🇰🇿 варварлық

🇬🇪 ბარბაროსული

🇦🇿 barbar

🇲🇽 bárbaro

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #17,783, this word belongs to specialized vocabulary. While not common in everyday speech, it enriches your ability to express complex ideas.

...
17780 exuberant
17781 fructose
17782 mending
17783 barbaric
17784 pleura
17785 punches
17786 bridged
...