barbed
UK: bɑːbd | US: bɑːrbd
adj. having sharp points or hooks (e.g., a barbed wire)
adj. (of remarks) deliberately hurtful or critical
The word "barbed" originates from the noun "barb," which traces back to the Latin barba (meaning "beard") via Old French barbe. The metaphorical extension to "sharp projections" (like the hooked points on a wire or arrow) arose from the resemblance of these protrusions to coarse beard hairs. The suffix "-ed" transforms the noun into an adjective, denoting the presence of barbs. Over time, "barbed" also gained a figurative sense for sharp or cutting language.
The fence was topped with barbed wire to prevent trespassing.
Her barbed comment left him speechless.
The arrow had a barbed tip, making it difficult to remove.
Politicians often exchange barbed remarks during debates.
The critic’s review was filled with barbed humor.