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.