1. A reference to a bearded condition or relating to unshaven hair on the cheeks and chin: Jane could describe the face of the burglar as being barbate with stiff gray whiskers.
2. In botany, plants that have long stiff fibers: Such plants, like oats and barley, have hairlike structures and are described as being barbate grains.

Go to these pages about Beards: Historical Presentation AND to Hair and Beard Styles from the 14th century to the 7th century B.C. so you can see much more about beards.

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