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barbarous

adjective

/ˈbɑːb(ə)rəs/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of barbarous

Characterized by cruelty, brutality, or a lack of civilization.
"The barbarous warriors pillaged and burned the village to the ground."

Detailed meaning of barbarous

When something is labeled as barbarous, it implies a level of inhumanity and violence that is often associated with acts that go against societal norms and ethical standards. Barbarous actions can include acts of war, torture, or severe oppression, as well as instances of extreme brutality towards individuals or groups. This term is used to emphasize the harsh and uncivilized nature of such actions, and it underscores the grave violation of human rights and moral principles that they represent. "Barbarous" serves as a strong condemnation of behaviors that are considered not only violent but also culturally and morally regressive.

Example sentences containing barbarous

1. The barbarous acts committed during the war shocked the international community.
2. The conqueror was known for his barbarous tactics, showing no mercy to his enemies.
3. The prisoners were subjected to barbarous treatment, which was later condemned by human rights organizations.
4. The ancient text depicted a barbarous tribe that engaged in ritualistic sacrifices.
5. The movie portrayed the pirate as a barbarous character, ruthless and devoid of any compassion.
6. The king's barbarous rule was marked by oppression and the brutal suppression of dissent.

History and etymology of barbarous

The adjective 'barbarous' has an etymology that traces its origins to ancient Greece and Rome. It is derived from the Greek word 'barbaros,' which was used to describe individuals or cultures that did not speak Greek and, as a result, their speech sounded like unintelligible gibberish to the Greeks. The Greeks perceived themselves as culturally and linguistically advanced, so those who didn't share their language and customs were often considered uncivilized or 'barbarous.' This term was later borrowed into Latin as 'barbarus,' retaining the sense of describing cultures or behaviors that were perceived as lacking in civilization and culture. Over time, 'barbarous' expanded in meaning to describe actions or behaviors characterized by cruelty, brutality, or a lack of civilization, emphasizing the negative and uncivilized aspects of such conduct. The etymology of 'barbarous' underscores its historical association with cultural and linguistic differences and the judgments made by those who considered themselves more advanced.

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Further usage examples of barbarous

1. Historians argue that the barbarous events of the past should not be forgotten but studied to prevent their recurrence.
2. The barbarous methods used in the experiment were deemed unethical and led to its immediate termination.
3. The citizens rose up against the tyrant's barbarous regime and fought for their freedom.
4. The crowd was in disbelief at the barbarous behavior displayed during the soccer match riot.
5. The novelist created a barbarous villain whose cruelty knew no bounds.
6. She read accounts of the barbarous colonization era and was moved to tears by the stories of suffering.
7. The barbarous invaders showed no mercy to the defenseless villagers.
8. History is filled with tales of barbarous conquests and atrocities.
9. The barbarous treatment of prisoners of war shocked the world.
10. Barbarous acts of violence plagued the war-torn region.
11. The dictator's reign was marked by barbarous oppression.
12. The barbarous massacre left a scar on the nation's history.
13. The barbarous customs of the tribe were a mystery to outsiders.
14. The barbarous torture methods used by the regime were inhumane.
15. The barbarous execution of political dissidents drew international condemnation.
16. Barbarous acts of piracy terrorized sailors on the high seas.
17. The barbarous enslavement of indigenous people fueled resistance movements.
18. Barbarous criminals were pursued by relentless law enforcement.
19. The barbarous hordes swept through the city, leaving destruction in their wake.
20. The barbarous warfare led to the displacement of countless families.
21. Barbarous rituals were performed to appease ancient gods.
22. The barbarous treatment of animals in some industries raised ethical concerns.
23. The barbarous disregard for human rights led to a humanitarian crisis.
24. Barbarous leaders often resort to propaganda to maintain control.
25. The barbarous exploitation of natural resources harmed the environment.
26. The barbarous customs clashed with modern notions of civility.
27. The barbarous dictator's regime was eventually overthrown by a popular uprising.
28. The barbarous battlefield conditions took a toll on soldiers' mental health.
29. The barbarous act of terrorism left a lasting scar on the nation.
30. Barbarous war crimes were documented and presented at the international tribunal.
31. The barbarous treatment of minorities sparked protests and calls for justice.