The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 6 letter word ELBOWS
I've seen this crossword clue in Financial Times
E
L
B
O
W
S
Buddy explains!
The straight part
We know that "barges" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case barges = elbows.The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.
What does ELBOWS mean?
ELBOWS noun- The joint between the upper arm and the forearm.
- (by extension) Any turn or bend like that of the elbow, in a wall, building, coastline, etc.; an angular or jointed part of any structure, such as the raised arm of a chair or sofa, or a short pipe fitting, turning at an angle or bent.
- A detective.
- Part of a basketball court located at the intersection of the free-throw line and the free-throw lane.
- A hit with the elbow.
- To push with the elbow.
- (by extension) To nudge, jostle or push.