What does "barter" mean?

The term "barter" specifically refers to the act of exchanging goods or services directly for other goods or services, without the use of money as an intermediary. This concept highlights an economic system that predates monetary transactions and is still utilized in certain contexts today. The emphasis on a direct trade relationship distinguishes barter from other forms of trade that involve currency.

In the context of the other choices, while they may involve various aspects of trade or behavior, they do not accurately capture the essence of what it means to barter. Accumulating wealth pertains to gathering or amassing resources, boasting dramatically relates to exaggerating one’s achievements, and being unconcerned denotes a lack of concern or awareness. None of these definitions align with the direct exchange nature of bartering.