1. a sharp point that sticks out backward from the main point of a hook, arrow, or similar object
2. a sharp or critical remark intended to hurt someone

1. to provide with barbs or sharp points

Examples

• The fishhook had a sharp barb to prevent the fish from escaping.
• The arrow’s barb made it difficult to remove from the target.
• She couldn’t resist throwing a barb about his cooking skills.
• His comment contained a subtle barb aimed at his rival.
• The comedian’s barbs were clever but sometimes cruel.
• They barbed the wire fence to keep animals out.
• The spear was barbed at the tip for hunting.