noun / verb
barb
BARB/bɑːrb/
A sharp backward-facing point designed to catch and hold.
The barb on the hook catches firmly in the fabric.
Etymology
The connection is visual: a beard-like appendage became the name for a projecting point on an arrow. That sharp projection catches in flesh or other material.
In context
the barb ript its way along the flesh— clear along the whole length of my arm— came out nigh my wrist
More examples
- She pulled the barbed wire away from her coat.
- His final remark carried a deliberately hurtful barb.
- The arrows were barbed to resist being pulled out.
Forms
barb · barbs · barbed · barbing