# Barnes

/ˈbɑɹnz/ (US) · CEFR B1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/barnes
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Definition

a common English family name or a place name. You might see it on signs for stores or in history books about famous people.

For teachers: a common English surname or toponym of Old English origin. When used as a proper name, it is always capitalised.

## Examples

- Mr. Barnes is our new history teacher.
- The local bookstore, Barnes & Noble, is a popular place for students to study on weekends.
- The Barnes Foundation houses one of the world's most significant collections of impressionist and post-impressionist paintings, reflecting the specific aesthetic tastes of its founder.

## Usage notes

- As a proper noun, it is always capitalised; the plural form 'the Barneses' refers to members of the family.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.