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Synonyms & Similar Words
Meaning of Barren
The primary meaning of the word "barren" is describing something as unable to produce or support life or growth.
Definitions
- (of land) unable to produce or support growth, especially due to a lack of fertile soil or adequate rainfall
- (of a person, animal, or thing) unable to produce offspring or fruit
- (of an activity or situation) unproductive or unsuccessful
Etymology of Barren
The word "barren" has its roots in Old French "barren" and further traces back to the Latin "arrassare," meaning to plow, but its modern sense is derived from the Old French word for "waste" or "uncultivated"
Historically, the term has been used to describe not just land but also people or endeavors that fail to produce the expected results, emphasizing a sense of lack or failure
Example Uses
- The barren landscape stretched out before us, devoid of any signs of life.
- After years of trying, they discovered that one of them was barren, making natural conception impossible.
- The company's barren period of innovation led to a significant decline in market share.
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
fertile
productive
fruitful
lush
green
thriving
prosperous
successful
profitable
rewarding
remunerative
rich
prolific
generous
abundant
bountiful
lavish
exuberant
luxuriant
verdant
flourishing
blooming
teeming