Definition

Covered with small sea creatures that attach themselves to hard surfaces, often found on boats or rocks.

Example

The old boat was barnacled and barely floated on the water.

Conversation

Have you seen that old boat by the docks?

Yeah, it's so barnacled and worn out.

I wonder how long it's been there, just collecting barnacles.

Probably for years — it really shows the effects of time.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Barnacled → The word 'barnacled' comes from 'barnacle' (from Middle English *barnacle*, possibly from Old French *bernacle*, meaning a type of shellfish). The suffix '-ed' indicates a past participle form. Thus, 'barnacled' describes something that has barnacles attached to it.

Memory Tip

Think of barnacles as shellfish that attach themselves to surfaces, and remember that 'barnacled' means something that has these shellfish attached.

Visually Confused Words