Pronunciation: [bˈɑːkləs] (IPA) 
The word "Barkless" is spelled with 2 syllables and the IPA phonetic transcription is /ˈbɑːk.ləs/. The first syllable is pronounced with a long "a" sound /ɑː/ followed by the consonant "k" sound. The second syllable starts with a schwa /ə/ sound followed by the consonant "l" sound and ends with the "s" sound. "Barkless" refers to something or someone that doesn't have a bark or the sound of a dog barking.
Barkless is a descriptive term used to refer to something or someone that lacks the ability to produce or emit a bark sound. The word is typically used to describe animals, particularly dogs, that do not possess the natural vocalization of barking. It signifies the absence or inability to make the characteristic sound associated with dogs.
Barkless can also be interpreted as the state of being silent or noiseless, as a result of the absence of barking. It implies a quiet demeanor or behavior, and can be used to describe environments or situations that are serene and without the usual noise associated with barking.
The term is commonly associated with specific dog breeds that are known for their lack of barking tendencies, such as the Basenji or the African Barkless Dog. These breeds are genetically predisposed to not bark or have significantly reduced barking tendencies, often emitting other sounds to communicate instead.
In a broader sense, barkless can also be used metaphorically to describe individuals who are quiet, reserved, or do not speak out or express their opinions vocally. It implies a lack of vocalization or speaking up in certain situations, whether by choice or inhibited by external factors. This meaning can extend beyond animals to include humans or any other context where vocalization or making noise is expected.
