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barb Synonyms
Another word for barb
Looking for synonyms for barb? Sourced from our comprehensive thesaurus, here is a list of similar words and another word for barb, organized by relevance and context.
• noun (Context 1)
A sharp projection near the end of an arrow, fishhook, or similar object, angled away from the main point to make extraction difficult.
Usage Example
"The fisherman carefully filed down the prong on the hook to practice safe catch-and-release."
Strong
prong
spike
Weak
spur
• noun (Context 2)
A deliberately hurtful, critical, or cutting remark.
Usage Example
"Despite his polite tone, his speech was full of hidden barbs aimed at his political rivals."
Strongest
insult
Strong
gibe
taunt
jibe
• verb (Context 3)
To fit or equip an object with a sharp, backward-pointing projection.
Usage Example
"The indigenous hunters would carefully spike their wooden spears with sharpened bone fragments."
Weak
spike
Opposites of barb
Looking for antonyms? The opposite of barb varies depending on the context. Here are a few common opposites:
compliment
praise
• Nearby Words
Cite this Entry
Wordmom. (2026). Synonyms for Barb. In Wordmom Thesaurus. Retrieved Oct 13, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/synonyms/barb