Synonyms of barb

barb

noun

ˈbärb 

as in insult

an act or expression showing scorn and usually intended to hurt another's feelings

delivered one last barb to his ex-girlfriend as he stalked away

Synonyms & Similar Words

• insult
• offence
• sarcasm
• outrage
• dart
• diss
• indignity
• epithet
• slap
• slur
• poke
• attack
• brickbat
• affront
• slight
• name
• personality
• jibe
• offense
• dis
• taunt
• gibe
• criticism
• put-down
• disgrace
• cut
• gird
• invective
• sneer
• vituperation
• dig
• quip
• abuse
• jeer
• shame
• mock
• disapproval
• swipe
• opprobrium
• catcall
• dishonor
• torture
• knock
• torment
• slam

Antonyms & Near Antonyms

• compliment
• praise
• commendation
• applause
• acclaim
• flattery
• accolade
• adulation

Example Sentences

Recent Examples of barb

Just days after the fiery exchange in which Zelenskyy traded barbs with the U.S. leaders, Trump announced the temporary suspension of all military aid to Ukraine. —Evan Nierman, Baltimore Sun, 13 Mar. 2025

Wisconsin Supreme Court candidates Susan Crawford and Brad Schimel traded barbs and defended their track records Wednesday night during their only debate for an open seat on the high court. —Caroline Vakil, The Hill, 13 Mar. 2025

Trump and Zelenskyy traded barbs in a remarkable White House meeting that led the Republican president to suggest Ukraine is more of an obstacle to peace than Russia. —Dave Goldiner, New York Daily News, 11 Mar. 2025

The Cboe Volatility Index, a gauge of fear on Wall Street, spiked as the leaders traded barbs. —Hakyung Kim,alex Harring, CNBC, 27 Feb. 2025