Meaning of "barb" in English

In English, "barb" refers to a sharp point projecting backward, as on an arrowhead or fishhook. It can also mean a cutting or biting remark, often intended to hurt or criticize. Barbs are commonly used in a metaphorical sense to describe verbal attacks or sarcastic comments. In addition to its literal and figurative meanings, the term also has applications within biology, where it describes a type of appendage or structure on some animals, such as the barbs of a feather.

Meaning of "barb" in French

In French, "barb" primarily serves to denote the same sharp projection, like those found on a hook or fishhook. It shares the figurative usage seen in English, where it pertains to pointed comments or criticisms made to provoke or offend. The biological definition remains relevant in describing certain anatomical features, paralleling its application in English. Overall, the term "barb" maintains its essential meanings across both languages, encompassing both literal and metaphorical expressions.

Pronunciation of "barb" in English

Phonetic Transcription: [bɑːrb].

Pronunciation Variations: The pronunciation of "barb" is fairly consistent across English dialects, though some regional accents may slightly alter the vowel sound, such as a more clipped vowel in some British accents.

Pronunciation of "barb" in French

Phonetic Transcription: [baʁb].

Pronunciation Variations: The pronunciation of "barb" in French is quite uniform, although regional accents may influence the pronunciation of the 'r', giving it a softer or more pronounced roll, depending on the area.

Sentence examples in English and translation to French

  1. The barb on the hook caught the fish. (L'ardillon de l'hameçon a attrapé le poisson.)
  2. Her comment was a sharp barb aimed at him. (Son commentaire était un piquant acéré visant à lui.)
  3. The arrow's barb was designed to cause extra damage. (L'ardillon de la flèche était conçu pour causer des dégâts supplémentaires.)
  4. He couldn't resist adding a barb to his joke. (Il ne put s'empêcher d'ajouter un piquant à sa blague.)
  5. The feathers of the bird had strong barbs. (Les plumes de l'oiseau avaient de solides barbillons.)
  6. She delivered one barb after another in their argument. (Elle a lancé pique sur pique pendant leur dispute.)
  7. The barb penetrated deeply into the material. (L'ardillon a pénétré profondément dans le matériau.)
  8. His barb about her work was unfair. (Sa remarque acerbe sur son travail était injuste.)
  9. They designed the new fishing hook with a secure barb. (Ils ont conçu le nouvel hameçon avec un ardillon sécurisé.)
  10. The barb of the rose caught on my sweater. (Le bout piquant de la rose s'est accroché à mon pull.)

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "barb" in English

Synonyms: remark, quip, taunt, gibe, insult, jab, dig, needle, shaft, put-down.

Antonyms: compliment, praise, flatter, commendation, accolade, applause, approval, acclaim, homage, honor.

Similar Words: arrowhead, hook, point, spine, prickle, thorn, stinger, spike, quill, bristle.

Synonyms, antonyms, and similar words for "barb" in French

Synonyms: pique, pointe, quolibet, trait, sarcasme, raillerie, piquant.

Antonyms: compliment, éloge, flatterie, louange.

Similar Words: ardillon, hameçon, piquant, épine, dard.

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