Synonyms for

Barren

Verb / ˈbærʌn / / ˈberʌn / Another word for barren — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

unable to produce crops; not productive

Synonyms & similar words

destitute devoid desolate waste bleak bare stark free innocent wasteland unproductive infertile sterile desolate empty lifeless vacant fruitless unfruitful unprofitable unyielding uncreative uninspired unimaginative uninteresting unexciting unstimulating boring dull tedious

Synonyms by register

Formal

unproductive infertile impoverished sterile

Informal

empty bare desolate washed up

Literary

desolate wasteland arid fallow

Antonyms

fertile productive fruitful lush abundant rich prolific

Common collocations

  • barren land
  • barren ground
  • barren soil
  • barren landscape
  • barren woman
  • barren rock
  • barren desert

Word family

noun barrenness
adjective barren

Usage note

Primarily used to describe land that cannot produce crops or vegetation. Can also be used metaphorically for people or things that are unproductive or lack results.

Example sentences

  1. The desert was barren and nothing could grow there.
  2. The farm had been barren for years and could no longer produce crops.
  3. The tree was barren and had no leaves.
  4. The land was barren and there was no sign of life.
  5. The garden was barren and needed to be fertilized.

Quotes

  • In a barren land, dreams are all you have.
  • A mind too active is no mind at all.
  • The barren land does not know whether the foot that steps on it belongs to an enemy or a friend.

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