Bar

/bɑːr/

nounBeginner🔥Very CommonObject
3 meanings1 idiom/phrase2 questions

Definitions

3 meanings
1

A long, relatively thin piece of solid material, typically rigid.

/bɑːr/

nounneutralBeginner
Object

A long, straight piece of rigid material

He used a metal bar to pry open the door.

💡 Simply: A long, straight stick or piece of something.

More Examples

2

The bar chart showed a clear upward trend.

How It's Used

Construction

"The iron bar held the weight of the structure."

2

A place where alcoholic beverages are served and consumed.

/bɑːr/

nounneutralBeginner
Place

An establishment serving alcoholic drinks

He ordered a beer at the bar.

💡 Simply: A place to get drinks.

More Examples

2

The bar was crowded on Friday night.

How It's Used

Social

"We met at the bar after work."

Tip:Think of a place to 'barter' drinks.
3

To prevent or exclude someone or something.

/bɑːr/

verbneutralIntermediate
Action

To obstruct or prevent

The law bars discrimination based on race.

💡 Simply: To stop something from happening.

More Examples

2

He was barred from entering the building.

How It's Used

Legal

"The judge barred the evidence from the trial."

Tip:Think of a bar as blocking entry.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Antonyms

Idioms & expressions

raise the bar

To improve standards or expectations.

"The new CEO raised the bar for employee performance."

From Old English *bær, meaning 'rod, pole, barrier'. It evolved through various meanings related to obstacles and places of entertainment.

The word 'bar' has been used in its various senses for centuries, appearing in legal and everyday contexts.

Memory tip

Think of a bar of chocolate, long and straight.

Word Origin

LanguageOld English
Original meaning

"rod, pole, barrier"

bar chartbar of soapbar code

Common misspellings

baarbahr

Usage

70%Spoken
30%Written