barbarian
UK: bɑːˈbɛərɪən | US: bɑːrˈbɛriən
n. 1. A person perceived as uncivilized, primitive, or culturally inferior.
n. 2. Historically, a foreigner or outsider in ancient Greek or Roman contexts.
adj. 1. Relating to or characteristic of barbarians; uncultured or brutal.
barbarian = barbar<foreign, uncivilized> + ian<noun/adjective suffix>
- barbar: From Greek barbaros, imitating the sound of unintelligible foreign speech ("bar-bar"). Originally referred to non-Greek speakers.
- ian: A suffix forming nouns/adjectives, indicating belonging or relation (e.g., historian, reptilian).
Etymology Origin:
The word traces back to ancient Greek, where barbaros mimicked the perceived gibberish of non-Greek languages. Romans later adopted barbarus to label outsiders, emphasizing cultural superiority. Over time, "barbarian" evolved to denote savagery or lack of refinement, reflecting historical biases against foreign groups.
The Romans viewed the Germanic tribes as barbarians.
His rude manners made him seem like a barbarian at the formal dinner.
The term "barbarian" often reflects cultural prejudice rather than objective truth.
In fantasy novels, barbarian warriors often symbolize raw strength and independence.
She criticized the vandalism as an act of barbarian destruction.