Barren: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe land that cannot produce crops or support plant life. Also can describe a situation, person, or effort that produces no results or lacks creativity.

• The desert landscape was barren, with not a single tree in sight
• After months of effort, their search for a new solution remained barren

Used to describe a person, effort, or situation that does not produce desired results or yield any significant output.

• Despite their hard work, the meeting was unproductive and no decisions were made
• He spent an unproductive afternoon browsing the internet

Used in agricultural or biological contexts to describe soil that cannot support plant growth or living organisms that cannot reproduce.

• The infertile soil required significant treatment before it could be used for farming
• The couple learned they were infertile and sought alternative ways to start a family

Used in medical or scientific contexts to describe something free from bacteria or other living microorganisms. Can also refer to the inability to reproduce, often in animals or humans.

• The surgical instruments were sterilized to ensure a sterile environment
• The lab produced a sterile strain of mice for their research

Used to describe land that cannot produce crops or where nothing can grow. It can also describe a place that is bleak and lifeless.

• The farmers struggled with the barren land that yielded no crops.
• The desert is a vast, barren landscape with little to offer.

Used to describe a person or couple who do not have children, often due to choice or circumstance.

• Despite many attempts, the couple remained childless and decided to adopt.
• She enjoyed her career and never regretted being childless.

Used in a medical context to describe a person, animal, or plant that is unable to reproduce naturally. It can also describe soil that cannot sustain plant growth.

• The doctor informed them that they were infertile and recommended treatment options.
• The infertile soil was unsuitable for farming.

Primarily used in a medical or biological context to describe an environment free from bacteria and living microorganisms. When referring to a person or animal, it means unable to reproduce. It also can describe something lacking creativity or vitality, often with a negative connotation.

• The surgical instruments must be sterile to prevent infections.
• After the medical procedure, he was left sterile and could not father children.
• The office had a sterile atmosphere that stifled creativity.