Definition of barb

The word "barb" has a fascinating origin! It comes from the Old English word "beorde", which means "bristle" or "quill". In the 14th century, the term "barb" began to be used to describe the sharp, pointed tips of arrowheads and other sharp objects. Over time, the word evolved to refer to any sharp or pointed projecting part, such as the barb of a fishhook or the barbs on a thorn. In the 19th century, the term "barb" took on a new meaning in veterinary medicine. A "barb" referred to a type of worm that infected horses and cattle. Today, the word "barb" is still used in various contexts, including fishing, biology, and even as a slang term for a person's sharp tongue or wit!