ENGLISH
REFERENCE

barks

v.
A2 Elementary US //ˈbɑɹks// UK //bˈɑːks// barks

v. makes a short, loud sound like a dog. You use this when a dog is excited or trying to protect its home.

v. produces the characteristic short, sharp cry of a dog or similar animal. Third-person singular present form; also used figuratively for humans shouting in a sharp, commanding tone.


SIMPLE

The neighbor's dog barks every time the mailman arrives.

CONTEXTUAL

Whenever a stranger approaches the gate, the guard dog barks loudly to alert the family.

COMPLEX

The sergeant barks orders at the new recruits, expecting immediate and silent obedience during the morning drills.

Synonyms
Usage

The verb is intransitive when describing the animal sound, but can be transitive when followed by 'out' (e.g., 'barks out orders').

© 2026 English Reference