barrel

bar-rel · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A cylindrical container with flat ends, traditionally made of wooden staves.

  2. 2.

    A unit of measurement for oil, equal to 42 US gallons (159 liters).

  3. 3.

    The tube of a gun through which the bullet travels.

  4. 4.

    The cylindrical part of various objects.

  5. 5.

    To move fast in an uncontrolled way.

Forms

plural: barrels

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    over a barrel — In a helpless position.
  • •
    barrel of laughs — Something very amusing (often sarcastic).
  • •
    lock, stock, and barrel — Everything; completely.
  • •
    scrape the bottom of the barrel — Use the last, worst resources.
  • •
    barrel organ — A mechanical musical instrument.

Related words

See also: cask, container, keg
Synonyms: cask, drum, keg

Etymology

From Old French baril, of uncertain origin, possibly Celtic.