Barn Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations
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barn
[bɑːrn ]
Definitions
farm animals
A barn is a large building on a farm where animals, such as cows or horses, are kept sheltered.
Synonyms
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| barn |
A barn is a large building on a farm where animals like cows and horses are often kept, or where hay and grain are stored.
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| shed |
A shed is a small building that is usually used for storing tools, bicycles, or other small items. It can also be used to store garden equipment.
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| stable |
A stable is a building where horses are kept. It has individual stalls for each horse, and often includes space for grooming and feeding.
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| cowshed |
A cowshed is specifically for housing cows. It's smaller than a barn and specially built to keep cows comfortable and safe.
|
Examples of usage
- The farmer stores hay in the barn.
- The barn is full of chickens.
storage
A barn can also refer to a large building used for storing materials such as grain or hay.
Synonyms
repository, storehouse, warehouse.
Which Synonym Should You Choose?
| Word | Description / Examples |
|---|---|
| barn |
A barn is specifically used in the context of agriculture. It refers to a large farm building for storing grain, hay, and often housing livestock.
|
| storehouse |
A storehouse is a building or place where material or supplies are stored, usually on a larger scale. It is versatile and can refer to both physical and metaphorical storage.
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| warehouse |
A warehouse is a large commercial building used for storing goods. It is chiefly used in the context of business, supply chain, and logistics.
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| repository |
A repository refers to a central location where data, information, or valuable items are stored and maintained. It is often used in a digital or information management context.
|
Examples of usage
- The farmer keeps his tools in the barn.
- The barn is used for storing crops.
Translations
To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.
Interesting Facts
Historical Origins
- The term 'barn' comes from the Old English word 'berern', meaning a place for storing barley.
- Initially, barns were built to store grains and protect them from animals and weather.
- Most barns today still follow traditional designs but have evolved in style and materials over time.
Architecture
- Barns can vary greatly in design, with styles like the classic red barn, hip-roof barn, and bank barn found across different regions.
- Some barns are designed with lofts, allowing farmers to store hay and equipment up high and save space.
- The iconic red color comes from a mix of iron oxide and linseed oil, which not only protects the wood but also makes barns easier to see from a distance.
Cultural Significance
- In rural America, barns represent agricultural heritage and are often landmarks in the landscape.
- Barns are pivotal in community events, sometimes serving as venues for fairs, weddings, and local gatherings.
- In folk music and country songs, barns symbolize a simple, honest life connected to the land.
Environmental Importance
- Barns play a role in sustainable farming practices, providing shelter for animals and safe storage for crops.
- Many modern barns are built using eco-friendly materials and incorporate energy-efficient designs.
- They can also serve as homes for beneficial organisms like bats, which help control pests naturally.
Literature and Media
- Barns often appear in children's stories and folk tales as settings for adventures or important events.
- The image of a barn has been romantically portrayed in films and art, symbolizing rural life and simplicity.
- Popular games and animated series often feature barns, making them recognizable and beloved symbols of farm life.
Origin of 'barn'
The word 'barn' originated from the Old English word 'bern' which meant 'house' or 'building'. In medieval times, barns were essential structures on farms for storing crops and sheltering animals. The design and purpose of barns have evolved over the centuries to meet the changing needs of agriculture.