I. ˈbärlē, ˈbȧlē, -li noun
( -s )
Etymology: Middle English barly, from Old English bærlic of barley, from bær- (akin to Old English bere barley) + -lic -ly; akin to Old Norse barr barley, Gothic barizeins of barley, Latin far spelt
1. : any cereal grass of the genus Hordeum cultivated since prehistoric times and widely adaptable being grown for forage and as a nurse or a smother crop
2. : the seed or grain of barley and its many varieties (especially Hordeum vulgare ) commonly used in the manufacture of malt beverages and also in breakfast foods and as feed for stock — see six-rowed barley
II. noun
( -s )
Etymology: probably by folk etymology from parley
: truce , respite — used in children's games
save oneself from being caught by crying barley