The term 'BARELY SPEAK' can be summarized by two crossword solutions: RASP (4 letters) and CROAK (5 letters). RASP is a harsh, grating sound made by forcing air through a constricted throat. It is often used to describe the sound of a person's voice when they are speaking in a low, hoarse tone. CROAK is a deep, guttural sound made by a frog or toad. It is also used to describe a person's voice when they are speaking in a very quiet, raspy tone. Both of these words are used to describe someone who is barely speaking.