bar
UK: bɑː | US: bɑːr
n. 1. A long, rigid piece of wood, metal, or other material used as a barrier or support.
n. 2. A counter where alcoholic drinks or food are served.
n. 3. A unit of pressure measurement (symbol: bar).
vt. 1. To fasten or secure with a bar.
vt. 2. To prohibit or exclude someone from a place or activity.
The word "bar" originates from the Old French barre (meaning "beam, rod, gate"), which itself derives from the Vulgar Latin barra (of uncertain origin, possibly Gaulish). The core idea of a "rod" or "barrier" has persisted through its evolution, branching into meanings like a counter (originally a barrier separating servers and customers) and a legal prohibition (metaphorically "blocking" access).
The windows had iron bars to prevent break-ins.
They met at the bar for a drink after work.
The pressure reached 1.5 bar during the experiment.
She barred the door to keep the dog inside.
He was barred from entering the club due to his behavior.