barracks

Meanings

1. 1nounplural

   A building or set of buildings where soldiers live.

   Grammar: Barracks is a plural noun; use it with a plural verb: The barracks are old. For one building, say 'a barracks' and use a singular verb: A new barracks is being built.

   Patterns

   • a barracks
   • the barracks
   • in the barracks
   • return to barracks

   The soldiers returned to their barracks after the exercise.

   A new barracks is being built near the airfield.

   The old barracks are being converted into apartments.

2. 2nounplural

   A large, often temporary, building or group of buildings providing basic accommodation for many people.

   Grammar: Also used for non-military accommodation; same plural agreement.

   Patterns

   • worker barracks
   • refugee barracks
   • labour barracks

   Migrant workers were housed in crowded barracks on the edge of town.

   The refugee barracks were overcrowded and lacked heating.

Common combinations

military barracks

The military barracks are located just outside the city.

army barracks

He spent his first week at the army barracks.

barracks room

Each barracks room sleeps four soldiers.

confined to barracks

The soldier was confined to barracks for a week as punishment.

Synonyms and how they differ

quarters

Quarters are living accommodations, often for officers or families, and can be more comfortable than barracks.

camp

A camp is a larger, often temporary site with tents or huts; barracks are usually permanent buildings.

garrison

A garrison is the whole military force stationed in a place, or the place itself; barracks are just the buildings.

Word family

barrack verb

To house soldiers in barracks; also, in Australian English, to cheer for a team.

Commonly confused: barracks or barrack?

Practice

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