BAR

Definition of BAR

BAR Noun and Verb

Bar is primarily a noun, but can also be used as a verb and an adjective. As a noun, it has multiple meanings related to physical structures, objects, establishments, and legal contexts. As a verb, it refers to the act of obstructing or preventing something. When used as an adjective, bar often describes something that functions as a barrier or obstacle.

BAR as a noun

As a noun, bar refers to a long, rigid piece of material, often made of metal or wood, used for supporting, reinforcing, or blocking access. For example, a bar can be used across a door to prevent it from opening, or as a part of a gate or fence to provide structural support or security. This can also apply to a bar used in architecture to strengthen a building or as part of a mechanical structure.

A Counter or Establishment Serving Alcohol: In another common use, bar refers to an establishment where alcoholic beverages are served. This can be a dedicated space within a restaurant, a standalone drinking establishment, or a section of a social venue. For example, a bar in a restaurant might offer drinks and snacks, while a nightclub bar serves drinks and provides a social space for patrons.

A Legal Term (The Bar): In the legal profession, the bar refers to the collective body of legal professionals who are authorized to practice law, as well as the specific qualifications and standards required for membership. The term bar can also describe the physical structure, such as the railing that separates the legal professionals (attorneys and judges) from the rest of the courtroom. For instance, passing the bar exam refers to qualifying to practice law in a specific jurisdiction.

A Measure of Music: In the context of music, a bar refers to a unit of time or a segment of a musical score, often marked by vertical lines on sheet music. This term is synonymous with “measure,” and it helps organize the timing and structure of a musical composition.

A Standard of Measurement (Barometer): Bar is also used as a unit of pressure, particularly in meteorology and engineering. In this context, it is used to measure atmospheric pressure or the force exerted on a surface, with one bar equivalent to 100,000 pascals. This usage is common in scientific and technical fields, particularly in the study of weather or fluid dynamics.

BAR as a verb

To Prevent or Obstruct: As a verb, bar means to obstruct or block movement, access, or action. For example, a gate can be barred to prevent entry, or someone might bar an individual from entering a building or event due to security concerns or other reasons. This can also apply to the legal or formal prohibition of certain actions or behaviors.

To Exclude or Prohibit: Bar can also be used to describe the action of officially prohibiting or excluding someone from a place or activity. For instance, a person may be barred from participating in a competition due to rule violations, or a location can bar certain individuals from entry for safety reasons. In this sense, it refers to a formal exclusionary measure.

To Set a Barrier or Obstacle: In a more figurative sense, bar can refer to setting up a mental, emotional, or conceptual barrier to prevent progress or understanding. For example, someone might be barred from expressing their opinions in a discussion if they are dismissed or not given a chance to speak.

In summary, bar is a versatile word functioning as a noun, verb, and adjective. As a noun, it can refer to a physical structure or rod, an establishment serving alcohol, a professional group in law, a unit of measurement in music or pressure, or a social barrier. As a verb, it describes the act of blocking, preventing, or excluding something or someone. As an adjective, bar can describe something that functions as an obstruction or a closed-off entity. Whether in physical, social, legal, or figurative contexts, bar conveys the idea of separation, limitation, and protection from access or progress.

Examples of BAR in a sentence

BAR as a noun in a sentence

• They met at the bar after work to unwind and catch up.
• The bar was filled with people enjoying drinks and lively conversation.
• The bartender served the drinks behind the wooden bar.
• He placed his belongings on the bar and ordered a beer.
• The bar was set high for the new employee, who had to prove his skills.
• The bar of justice must be upheld by all who serve in the legal system.
• They took a seat at the bar to enjoy some appetizers while waiting for their table.
• The defendant was found guilty after the bar of evidence was overwhelming.

BAR as a verb in a sentence

• The entrance was barred by a large metal gate to prevent unauthorized access.
• The judge decided to bar the witness from testifying due to conflicting statements.
• He was barred from the club after violating its rules.
• The door was barred shut with a heavy piece of wood to secure the house during the storm.
• They had to bar the pathway to keep pedestrians from crossing the construction site.
• His application was barred because of his criminal record.
• She attempted to bar the defendant from leaving the country until the trial was over.
• They chose to bar certain content from the website to ensure a safe environment for users.

Origin of BAR

The term bar has a multifaceted etymology, reflecting its evolution from architectural and legal contexts to its modern usage in both social and professional environments.

Semantic Context: Bar is a noun with various meanings depending on the context. It primarily refers to a long, rigid object, a place where drinks are served, or a professional barrier or institution. It is also used metaphorically in legal and professional settings, such as in reference to the legal profession or barriers to progress.

• Etymological Roots: The word bar comes from the Old French “barre”, meaning “bar,” “beam,” or “rod,” which in turn derives from the Latin “barra”, meaning “bar,” “obstruction,” or “bolt.” The root concept refers to something that is used to obstruct, separate, or mark off spaces. Over time, the meaning of bar expanded to encompass a variety of objects and functions, such as architectural features, legal terms, and social establishments.
• Historical Development: The use of bar in an architectural sense dates back to medieval times, where it referred to a horizontal piece of wood or metal used to secure a door or window, or to serve as a dividing line, such as a railing or partition. As an architectural element, bars were used to provide support, security, and division in structures. By the 14th century, the term began to be applied to the physical barrier in courtrooms, known as the “bar”, which separated the public from the area where legal professionals worked, marking the professional boundary of the legal profession. The modern use of bar to refer to a social establishment that serves alcoholic beverages emerged in the 17th century, likely influenced by the idea of a physical counter or barrier over which drinks were served. In this sense, bar became associated with the social activity of drinking and meeting in a public space.
• Current Usage: Today, the term bar is most commonly used to refer to both social establishments and legal contexts. The bar as a social venue remains one of the most recognized and important elements of nightlife and social gatherings worldwide. The term continues to have significant importance in legal jargon, with law professionals often referring to their standing in the bar as part of their career. In the realm of architecture, bar retains its traditional meaning, referring to structural elements in buildings, especially those used for safety or division. In more figurative contexts, bar is used in expressions and sayings to indicate thresholds or limits, emphasizing its role in measuring progress, success, or restrictions.

The term bar has a broad usage history, evolving from its roots in physical objects used to obstruct or divide to its current meanings in both the legal and social worlds. From bars in courtrooms to those in the hospitality industry, the word reflects both literal and metaphorical boundaries in modern society.