'barnstorm' originates from American English in the early 20th century; it is a compound of 'barn' and 'storm', where 'barn' meant 'a farm building used as a performance venue' and 'storm' was used figuratively to mean 'to attack or visit vigorously.'

'barnstorm' developed as the phrase 'barn-storming' referring to theatrical troupes who 'stormed' (invaded or visited energetically) barns and other rural venues to perform; in the 1920s the term was extended to pilots who performed daring aerial displays, and later it broadened to political campaigning and figurative uses.

Initially, it meant 'to stage or give performances in barns or rural venues'; over time it expanded to include 'perform aerial stunts' and later the figurative sense 'to tour energetically or to sweep through (competitions or campaigns) with great effect.'