Basic Details
Word: Bark
Part of Speech: Noun / Verb
Meaning: The hard outer covering of a tree; or, to make a sharp sound, like a dog.
Synonyms: Tree covering, outer layer (for noun); yelp, shout (for verb)
Antonyms: Silence (for verb)
Idioms and Phrases
- Barking up the wrong tree: To pursue a mistaken or misguided course of action. Example: "If you think I took your book, you're barking up the wrong tree!"
- Every dog has its day: Everyone will have their moment of success or glory at some point. Example: "Don't worry, every dog has its day, and your efforts will be recognised!"
Usage Examples
Example 1: The thick bark of the oak tree protects it from harsh weather.
Example 2: My dog loves to bark at the postman every morning.
Example 3: After the storm, I noticed some bark had come loose from the tree trunk.
Fun Fact
The bark of trees can vary greatly between species. Some trees have smooth bark, while others, like the cork oak, have thick, spongy bark that can be harvested without harming the tree!
Famous Quote
"Until one has loved an animal, a part of one's soul remains unawakened." - Anatole France
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. What does "bark" mean as a noun?
a) A sound made by a dog
b) The outer covering of a tree
c) A kind of fruit
d) A type of leaf
Answer: b) The outer covering of a tree
2. Which of these is a synonym of "bark" when referring to the sound?
a) Growl
b) Yell
c) Yelp
d) Whisper
Answer: c) Yelp
3. Which sentence uses "bark" correctly as a verb?
a) The tree's bark is very thick.
b) The dog barked loudly at the stranger.
c) She painted the bark on the paper.
d) He used the bark to climb the hill.
Answer: b) The dog barked loudly at the stranger.
4. Which idiom means to make a mistaken assumption?
a) Barking up the wrong tree
b) Every dog has its day
c) The early bird catches the worm
d) A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush
Answer: a) Barking up the wrong tree
5. What is the opposite of "bark" when referring to making a noise?
a) Hush
b) Speak
c) Sing
d) Laugh
Answer: a) Hush
