Definition of barf

The word "barf" is a slang term commonly used by children to describe vomit. The origin of this word is somewhat debated, and its exact etymology is unclear. Some experts claim that the word "barf" is derived from the Scandinavian word "barf" or "brav," which means "to bring forth" or "deliver." This theory suggests that the word "barf" could have emerged in England during the Viking Age when Norse words were adopted into the English language. Another theory suggests that "barf" is an alteration of the word "parf" or "parval," a Middle English term meaning "a young deer" or "a fawn." This theory proposes that "barf" could have originated as a colloquial term for diarrhea, which Deer hunters would use to describe the fawn's watery stool. Finally, some linguists suggest that the word "barf" could have originated from the Proto-Germanic root word "bergdron," which means "to throw up" or "vomit." This theory proposes that this root word could have been adopted and adapted into various Germanic languages, including Old English, which could have led to the word "barf" in modern English. Regardless of its exact origin, the word "barf" is now commonly used by children as a slang term for vomit, indicating its integration into the contemporary lexicon of English slang.