Barricade: meaning, definitions and examples

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barricade

[ˌbær.ɪˈkeɪd ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

in a protest

A barricade is a temporary structure set up to block the passage of something, often used in protests to prevent people or vehicles from passing through a certain area.

Synonyms

barrier, blockade, obstacle.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
barricade	A makeshift or temporary barrier typically used to block off access or protect from danger. Often seen during protests or emergency situations. During the protest, the activists built a barricade out of old furniture to block the road Firefighters put up a barricade to keep people away from the burning building
blockade	Used primarily in a military or political context to describe an effort to prevent goods or people from entering or leaving a place, usually by force. The naval blockade stopped all trade ships from reaching the enemy's harbor The city was under blockade for several months, leading to shortages of essential supplies
obstacle	Anything that makes it difficult to achieve something or move forward. Can be literal, like an object blocking the way, or figurative, like a personal challenge. The fallen tree was a major obstacle on the hiking trail Overcoming this obstacle will require a lot of hard work and determination
barrier	A general term for anything that prevents movement or access. Can be physical, like a fence, or metaphorical, like a language barrier. The language barrier made it difficult for the tourists to communicate with the locals They installed a barrier to prevent cars from entering the park

Examples of usage

The protesters set up a barricade on the street to block the entrance to the government building.
The police had to dismantle the barricade to allow traffic to flow again.

^{Context #2 | Verb}

in a protest

To barricade means to block or secure a place using barriers or obstacles, often done in protests to prevent access to a certain area.

Synonyms

bar, block, secure.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
barricade	Use 'barricade' when talking about setting up a physical barrier to prevent entry or passage, often in times of conflict or danger. The protesters built a barricade to stop the police from advancing. We had to barricade the doors to protect ourselves from the storm.
block	'Block' is used when referring to any action or object that obstructs or stops movement, it can also have negative connotations if it implies hindering progress or development. A fallen tree blocked the road after the storm. He put his hand up to block the shot. She was frustrated because he kept blocking her plans.
bar	The term 'bar' is suitable for denoting a long, rigid object used to block a passage or an impassable barrier; it can also refer to a legal profession or a place where alcoholic beverages are served. A metal bar was placed across the gate to keep it shut. The prisoner tried to break the bars of his cell. She passed the bar exam with flying colors. They decided to meet at the bar after work.
secure	'Secure' is generally used when referring to making something safe, stable, or free from danger or risk. He taught her how to secure her bike to the rail. They secured all the windows before leaving for the trip. The measures were taken to secure the area from intruders.

Examples of usage

The activists barricaded the entrance to the construction site to stop the project from proceeding.
The police barricaded the streets to prevent the protesters from advancing.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'barricade' comes from the French 'barrique', meaning barrel, showing how barrels were used in making defenses.
It entered the English language in the late 17th century, originally referred to physical barriers during conflicts.

Historical Uses

Barricades were famously used during the French Revolution as a way for citizens to defend their streets against soldiers.
During World War II, makeshift barricades were set up in cities to protect against invading forces.

Social Movements

Barricades have played a significant role in protests, symbolizing resistance and the people's fight for change.
During the 1968 protests in Paris, barricades became iconic representations of student and worker uprisings.

Safety and Security

In modern usage, barricades are used by law enforcement during emergencies to protect zones and control crowds.
They can be temporary or permanent structures, seen often at construction sites to keep the public safe.

In Popular Culture

Barricades have been featured in many movies and books as a symbol of rebellion, such as in 'Les Misérables' which depicts barricades during the uprising.
In video games, players often use barricades as defensive measures against enemies or obstacles.

Translations

Translations of the word "barricade" in other languages:

🇵🇹 barricada

🇮🇳 बैरिकेड

🇩🇪 Barrikade

🇮🇩 barikade

🇺🇦 барикада

🇵🇱 barykada

🇯🇵 バリケード (barikēdo)

🇫🇷 barricade

🇪🇸 barricada

🇹🇷 barikat

🇰🇷 바리케이드 (barikeideu)

🇸🇦 حاجز

🇨🇿 bariéra

🇸🇰 bariéra

🇨🇳 路障 (lùzhàng)

🇸🇮 barikada

🇮🇸 hindrun

🇰🇿 баррикада

🇬🇪 ბარიკადა

🇦🇿 baryer

🇲🇽 barricada

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #21,581, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.

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21578 dramatized
21579 benefice
21580 tufted
21581 barricade
21582 oxygenated
21583 hummed
21584 leniency
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