barnacle
3 synonyms for barnacle, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — A small marine crustacean that attaches itself permanently to rocks, boat hulls, or other surfaces.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
How to use barnacle
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
barnacle-encrusted
scrape off barnacles
Etymology
Origin uncertain and long debated; likely traces through Old French and Medieval Latin back to a Celtic word for rock, since barnacles cling to rocky surfaces.
Full origin of barnacle →Frequently asked questions
What does “barnacle” mean?
The word “barnacle” means a small marine crustacean that attaches itself permanently to rocks, boat hulls, or other surfaces. In plain terms, a small shelled sea creature that clings tightly to underwater surfaces.
How do you pronounce “barnacle”?
“Barnacle” is pronounced BAH-nuhkl (/ˈbɑɹnəkl̩/ in IPA).
How do you use “barnacle” in a sentence?
Here is “barnacle” used in a sentence: “The bottom of the boat was crusted with barnacles after a summer in the water.”
What part of speech is “barnacle”?
“Barnacle” is a noun.
Where does the word “barnacle” come from?
The word “barnacle” comes from Medieval Latin. Origin uncertain and long debated; likely traces through Old French and Medieval Latin back to a Celtic word for rock, since barnacles cling to rocky surfaces.
