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
• sarcasm
• outrage
• dart
• indignity
• epithet
• slap
• slur
• poke
• attack
• brickbat
• affront
• slight
• name
• personality
• dis
• offense
• taunt
• criticism
• gibe
• 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

The barbs in this race have become deeply personal, with anti-Muslim rhetoric taking center stage. — Christopher Buchanan, Los Angeles Times, 21 Sep. 2026

The sheriff’s office said its investigation is ongoing, as the case draws national attention and political barbs. — Alisha Ebrahimji, CNN Money, 14 Sep. 2026

Yes, those were the simpler days of television — when fast cars, alternating love interests, and witty barbs were more than enough to keep us entertained. — Skyler Trepel, Entertainment Weekly, 13 Sep. 2026

Issues that divided the candidates Ahern and Hoffmann traded barbs throughout the run-up, with Ahern faulting Hoffmann for contributing $550,000 to his campaign and for not serving as a frontline prosecutor on major narcotics or capital cases. — Katie Mulvaney, The Providence Journal, 10 Sep. 2026