barb Definition

barb
noun

1. A point on a hook facing in the opposite direction to the main point, which makes it difficult to pull the hook out.

Thesaurus: thorn, spike, spur, quill, bristle, arrow.
2. A humorous but hurtful remark.

Thesaurus: insult, affront, gibe, dig (slang), cut, sarcasm, sneer, slur, aspersion.
3. One of the threadlike structures forming a feather's web.

verb

barbed, barbing
1. To fit or provide something with barbs or a barb. See also barbed.

Etymology: 14c in obsolete sense ‘beard' and then applied to a comparable projection or appendage: from Latin barba beard.