barbed

adjective

ˈbärbd How to pronounce barbed (audio)
Synonyms of barbednext
1
: having barbs
2
: characterized by pointed and biting criticism or sarcasm
barbed witticisms

Synonyms of barbed

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Examples of barbed in a Sentence

The candidates exchanged barbed comments during the debate. barbed satire on American academia
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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Another drone created a smoke screen while still more blasted through triple-layered barbed wire. — Anna Mulrine Grobe, Christian Science Monitor, 31 July 2026 The train station hulked behind barbed wire, abandoned for years, both witness to and eight million bricks’ worth of evidence of Detroit's near-collapse. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 30 July 2026 After a decree by the Volkskammer, East German soldiers began installing a barbed wire barrier through Berlin. — USA Today, 28 July 2026 These prickly hairs are for protection, with barbed ends that easily penetrate the skin of predators or your hand. — Markis Hill, Kansas City Star, 26 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for barbed

Word History

First Known Use

1611, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of barbed was in 1611

Phrases Containing barbed

Rhymes for barbed

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Browse Nearby Words

barbecue sauce
barbed
barbed wire
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Cite this Entry

“Barbed.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/barbed. Accessed 6 Aug. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on barbed

Nglish: Translation of barbed for Spanish Speakers

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