Definition

Describing something that is very cruel, savage, or lacking in culture and refinement.

Example

The barbarous acts committed during the war shocked the entire world.

Conversation

Did you hear about that movie set in ancient times?

Yeah, I heard it features some really barbarous battles.

It’s crazy how they portrayed the characters as so barbarous and uncivilized.

For sure! It makes you appreciate how far we've come in terms of culture.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Barbarous → It is formed from "barbarus" (from Latin, meaning foreign or strange) and the suffix "-ous" (meaning full of or characterized by). The word "barbarous" describes something that is full of barbarism or characterized by a lack of civilization.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'full of' ('-ous') 'foreignness' or strangeness ('barbarus') — that's why barbarous means uncivilized or savage.

Visually Confused Words