Part of Speech

Noun, Adjective

Pronunciation

/bɑːrˈbɛə.ri.ən/

Definitions

1. (Noun) A member of a community or tribe not belonging to one of the great civilizations (e.g., ancient Rome or Greece). Historically, the term often referred to non-Greek or non-Roman peoples.

2. (Noun) A person who is perceived to be uncivilized or primitive in behavior, language, or culture.

3. (Adjective) Relating to or characteristic of barbarians; uncivilized, crude, or brutal.

Usage Examples

1. The barbarians invaded the Roman Empire, causing widespread destruction.

2. The film portrayed the barbarian tribes as ruthless invaders.

3. His behavior was considered barbarian by the court, lacking the decorum expected in such a setting.

Etymology

From the Latin word "barbarus," meaning "foreign, strange" or "uncivilized." The term was originally used by the Greeks and Romans to describe people who did not speak Greek or Latin, and was later applied to various "uncivilized" groups.

Synonyms

1. Savage

2. Primitive

3. Uncivilized

4. Heathen

5. Brutal

Antonyms

1. Civilized

2. Refined

3. Cultured

4. Sophisticated

5. Polished

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "barbarian" can vary slightly based on regional accents. In some European languages, the "r" sound may be rolled or trilled, while in American English, the "r" is typically pronounced more sharply. The stress on the second syllable is common across many languages.

Historical Usage

Historically, the word "barbarian" was used by the ancient Greeks and Romans to describe foreign peoples who did not speak Greek or Latin. These societies viewed non-Greek or non-Roman languages as unintelligible, which they likened to "bar-bar" sounds, thus coining the term "barbarian." Over time, the term evolved to refer to any group considered uncivilized or primitive by the standards of more advanced societies.

Cultural Nuances

In modern usage, the term "barbarian" is often considered pejorative and culturally insensitive, as it implies that some cultures or people are inferior or uncivilized. However, the word has historical and literary significance, often evoking themes of conflict between different civilizations or ways of life. In some cases, the term has been reclaimed or used in historical contexts to describe early human societies or indigenous cultures.

More Information

The word "barbarian" has been used throughout history to refer to various groups, including the Huns, Goths, Vandals, and other tribes that invaded the Roman Empire. In literature, barbarians are often depicted as fierce warriors or outsiders challenging the established order. The term has been instrumental in shaping Western cultural narratives of civilization versus barbarism, with implications for social, political, and moral discussions that continue to this day.