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barrel

Definition

  • noun: a round usually wooden container with curved sides and flat ends
  • noun: a round bulging vessel of greater length than breadth that is usually made of staves bound with hoops and has flat ends of equal diameter
  • verb: to move very fast and often in an uncontrolled or dangerous way
  • verb: to put or pack in a barrel
  • synonyms: jar

Examples

  • The excessive coverage of the scandal signals that the news media may have finally hit/reached 'the bottom of the barrel'.

  • Salaries in the industry are scraping/hitting 'the bottom of the barrel'. [=salaries in the industry are very low]

  • Several people have lost their jobs recently, so the office isn't exactly a 'barrel of laughs' these days.

Movie clips

Movie quotes

  • (..) Isn't he wonderful? The Lord has taught me a fine lesson. Though I may think I am godly, I am not worldly. Please. My barbarian friend, let's open a barrel and try to save each other's souls. Alas, I am not permitted. Fine. You talk, I'll drink. May I have this dance? This lady is spoken for. (..)
    1991 Robin Hood: Prince of Thieves