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

There is a host of information like temperature (red line), dewpoint (green line), winds (barbs on the right), stability information (useful for storm potential), and precipitable water (helpful in assessing flood potential). —Marshall Shepherd, Forbes, 21 Mar. 2025

While the utility companies and political leaders exchange barbs over electric bills and profitability, Wall Street has been issuing warnings about the health of the utility sector. —Edmund H. Mahony, Hartford Courant, 20 Mar. 2025

Paxton has been a noted critic of Cornyn, especially after the senator threw barbs at him during his impeachment trial. —Brady Knox, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 19 Mar. 2025

Ted and Harvey are buddies, trading barbs and game plans. —Ayan Artan, Vulture, 16 Mar. 2025