Fencing Equipment

noun a cutting or biting remark

• The diplomat's speech was filled with subtle barbs directed towards his political opponents.
• I can't believe she threw that barb at him during the meeting!
• Did you see the way he dropped that barb on her? It was savage.
• Her words were like barbs, piercing through his defenses and leaving him vulnerable.

noun a fencing sword with a light, flexible blade

verb prevent (something considered wrong or undesirable) from succeeding

• The chef wrapped the fish in foil before placing it in the oven.
• Don't forget to cover the leftovers with foil before putting them in the fridge.
• I used some foil to wrap up my sandwich for later.
• His calm demeanor was the perfect foil to her anxiousness.