Definition of Bark (meaning 1 of 2 — noun)
Quick Meaning of Bark
The rough protective layer covering the outside of tree trunks; or the loud sharp sound a dog makes.
Detailed Definition of Bark
The hard outer covering of a tree trunk and branches; or the sharp sound made by a dog.
How to Pronounce Bark
Stress pattern: O (1-syllable word).
Tip: One syllable. The 'ar' sounds like in 'car' or 'far'. The final 'k' is crisp and clearly pronounced.
Other Meanings of Bark
“Bark” has 2 distinct meanings in English. You’re viewing meaning #1; here are the other 1:
#2 Bark as a verb
When a dog makes a loud sharp sound; or when a person shouts or speaks roughly.
bark at
Origin and Etymology of Bark
From Old Norse 'bǫrkr' for tree bark; dog bark may derive from onomatopoeia.
How to Use Bark in a Sentence
Each example shows “bark” in the meaning “The rough protective layer covering the outside of…”, with a CEFR level so learners can pick examples that match their fluency.
-
“The tree's bark was rough and covered in moss.”
-
“We could hear the dog's bark from outside the house.”
-
“Different tree species have distinct bark patterns and textures.”
Synonyms and Antonyms of Bark
Common Synonyms for Bark
Smart Synonyms for Bark — When to Use Each
- rind
- for outer layer of citrus fruits specifically
- skin
- as a general term for protective outer surface
Common Collocations with Bark
These phrases pair with “bark” in everyday English:
- tree bark
- dog bark
- rough bark
- birch bark
- bark of a tree
Common Mistakes When Using Bark
Even fluent speakers slip up with “bark”. Here’s how to avoid the most common errors:
- ✗ Wrong: The tree's bark are very rough and thick.
- ✓ Correct: The tree's bark is very rough and thick.
- Why: Singular noun 'bark' requires singular verb 'is', not plural 'are'.
- ✗ Wrong: I heard a barks from the dog outside.
- ✓ Correct: I heard a bark from the dog outside.
- Why: Use singular 'a bark' after the indefinite article 'a', not 'a barks'.
Other Forms of Bark
Frequently Asked Questions About Bark
What is the meaning of "Bark"?
The rough protective layer covering the outside of tree trunks; or the loud sharp sound a dog makes.
How do you pronounce "Bark"?
The IPA is /bɑːrk/. One syllable. The 'ar' sounds like in 'car' or 'far'. The final 'k' is crisp and clearly pronounced.
What part of speech is "Bark"?
"Bark" is a noun at A2 level (Common European Framework).
What are synonyms for "Bark"?
Common synonyms include skin, covering, rind.
How do you use "Bark" in a sentence?
For example: "The tree's bark was rough and covered in moss."