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barky

American  
[bahr-kee] / ˈbɑr ki /

adjective

barkier, barkiest
  1. consisting of, containing, or covered with bark.

  2. resembling bark.


Etymology

Origin of barky

First recorded in 1580–90; bark 2 + -y 1

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

In the show, barky boats is a game that takes place on a tiny stream with tree bark, but there’s no water here.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 22, 2026

Unlike the gruff, barky impressions lots of comedians were doing at the time, Johnson’s had a flow.

From The Wall Street Journal • Oct. 3, 2025

Sure, the Hungarian herding breed can be stubborn and barky, Cheimis said, but Csoki also looks after her geese and chickens at home in Kingfield, Maine, even lying down next to the goslings.

From Seattle Times • May 13, 2024

They’ll foam at the mouth for the barky sound of the Manchester post-punk band.

From Washington Post • Jul. 15, 2021

“Oh my precious stars!” she said in her craggy, barky, leafy voice, for she had not yet un-transformed.

From "The Girl Who Drank the Moon" by Kelly Barnhill