I. ˈber-ən, ˈba-rən adjective
Etymology: Middle English bareine, from Anglo-French barain, perhaps of Celtic origin; akin to Middle Welsh brynar fallow land
Date: 13th century
1. : not reproducing: as
a. : incapable of producing offspring — used especially of females or matings
b. : not yet or not recently pregnant
c. : habitually failing to fruit
2. : not productive: as
a. : producing little or no vegetation : desolate
barren deserts
b. : producing inferior crops
barren soil
c. : unproductive of results or gain : fruitless
a barren scheme
3. : devoid , lacking — used with of
barren of excitement
4. : lacking interest or charm
a barren routine
5. : lacking inspiration or ideas
a barren mind
Synonyms: see bare
• bar·ren·ly adverb
• bar·ren·ness -ə(n)-nəs noun
II. noun
Date: 1651
1. plural : an extent of usually level land having an inferior growth of trees or little vegetation
2. : a tract of barren land