Meaning & Definition of word "Bullying"

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    Bullying

    /ˈbʊlɪŋ/

    noun:

    • 1. The act of intimidating or mistreating someone, often repeatedly, to exert power or control over them.
      • Example: Bullying in schools can lead to serious emotional issues for students.
    • 2. Behavior characterized by the use of force, threats, or coercion to dominate or intimidate others.
      • Example: The workplace bullying caused several employees to resign.
    • 3. A repeated aggressive behavior that can be physical, verbal, or relational, directed towards someone perceived as weaker.
      • Example: Cyber bullying has become a major concern among teenagers.

    verb:

    • 1. To subject someone to cruel treatment or intimidation.
      • Example: He was bullying his classmates by regularly mocking them in front of others.
    • 2. To force someone to do something through threats or intimidation.
      • Example: She felt pressured and bullied into signing the contract without reading it.

    Etymology

    The term 'bully' was originally a term of endearment in the 16th century, derived from the Dutch 'boel', meaning 'lover or brother'.

    Common Phrases and Expressions

    school bullying:

    Bullying that occurs in educational settings.

    workplace bullying:

    Bullying that takes place in a work environment.

    cyberbullying:

    Bullying that occurs through digital means, such as the internet or mobile devices.

    Related Words

    harass:

    To subject someone to aggressive pressure or intimidation.

    intimidate:

    To frighten or overawe someone, especially in order to make them act.

    victim:

    A person harmed, injured, or killed as a result of a crime, accident, or other event.

    Slang Meanings of bullying

    Meaning: Throwing shade

    Example Sentence: She's been throwing shade at him for weeks, it's basically bullying.

    Meaning: Hazing

    Example Sentence: The initiation process involved some serious hazing that crossed into bullying.