bars
Bars (interjection) means slang used to praise something clever, witty, or well put — especially a sharp line in rap or a killer comeback. Example: “That's bars!" his friends said after he dropped the punchline.”
How to Use Bars
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishModern slang for impressive rap lyrics or a witty remark worth praising.
Don't confuse this slang sense with "bars" meaning the plural of "bar" (a pub, a metal rod, or a measure of music).
Informal slang, most common in hip-hop culture and casual speech; not used in formal writing.
Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
"That's _____!" his friends said after he dropped the punchline.
Related Words
Rhymes for bars
See all rhymes for bars →Frequently Asked Questions
What does “bars” mean?
The word “bars” means slang used to praise something clever, witty, or well put — especially a sharp line in rap or a killer comeback. In plain terms, modern slang for impressive rap lyrics or a witty remark worth praising.
How do you pronounce “bars”?
“Bars” is pronounced BAHZ (/ˈbɑː(ɹ)z/ in IPA).
How do you use “bars” in a sentence?
Here is “bars” used in a sentence: “"That's bars!" his friends said after he dropped the punchline.”
What part of speech is “bars”?
Depending on how it is used, “bars” can be an interjection and a noun.
Is “bars” a common word?
“Bars” is a fairly common word in modern English.
How many meanings does “bars” have?
“Bars” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: slang used to praise something clever, witty, or well put — especially a sharp line in rap or a killer comeback.
What does 'bars' mean in rap?
In rap, 'bars' refers to the lyrics, specifically clever, skillful lines. Saying an artist 'has bars' or 'spits bars' is high praise for sharp wordplay and strong writing. As an exclamation, shouting 'bars!' after a line is a way of applauding it as genuinely impressive.
Why is it called 'bars'?
The term comes from music, where a 'bar' is a single measure, a unit that divides a song into equal beats. Rap verses are counted in bars, so a rapper's lines line up with these measures. Over time, 'bars' shifted from meaning the measures themselves to meaning the impressive lyrics filling them.
Is 'bars' a compliment?
Yes, strongly so. Calling something 'bars' is pure praise for cleverness or skill with words. While it started with rap lyrics, people now use it for any sharp line: a witty comeback, a brilliant tweet, or a perfectly timed joke. If someone says your line was 'bars,' take it as a win.