barren
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈbærən/
KK: /ˈbærən/
adjective
Definition
Not able to produce plants, crops, or offspring; empty or lacking in growth.
Example
The barren land could not support any crops or vegetation.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: barrener
Superlative: barrenest
Conversation
Have you seen that barren landscape we passed on our hike?
Yeah, it was surprising to see so little vegetation there.
I wonder how it became so barren over time.
Maybe it's due to climate change or just a lack of rain.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
empty
sterile
desolate
Antonyms
fertile
lush
productive
noun
Definition
A piece of land that is not able to produce crops or support vegetation, often dry and unproductive.
Example
The barren land stretched for miles, with hardly any plants in sight.
Conversation
Have you ever seen a barren landscape before?
Yeah, I went hiking in one last summer, and it was so unique.
It must have been interesting to see such a barren area up close.
Root Explanation
Barren → The word originates from Old French *barain*, meaning unproductive or sterile. It describes land that is unable to produce crops or support life.
Memory Tip
Think of land that is 'unproductive' — that's what barren means.
Visually Confused Words
unbarren
warren
darren
barken
arrent
barn
bare