Briar is a slur used to describe Whites in a derogatory way. Term probably comes from the briar bushes found in Appalachian states. Variant: briar-hopper. Applied locally to redneck Kentucky native or other southerner from Appalachia who resettled in Southwestern Ohio during or after WWII in search of factory jobs.
The word Briar is a racial slur that has been used historically to degrade and dehumanize whites. The word is still used by some people for this purpose, and it is seen as offensive and hurtful to whites. If you are unsure about whether or not it is appropriate to use the word Briar, it is best to err on the side of caution and avoid using it in any situation.