Bully

/ˈbʊli/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A person who uses strength or influence to harm or intimidate those who are weaker.

The new kid at school became a target for the bully who had been there for years.

A blustering, quarrelsome, overbearing person.

Her boss is a real bully, always shouting at employees to get his way.

verb

To seek to harm, intimidate, or coerce (someone), especially with threats or force.

He bullied his classmates into giving him their lunch money.

To treat someone in a cruel or intimidating way.

It is unacceptable to bully anyone, regardless of the situation.

From the 16th century, possibly derived from the word 'boully,' which meant 'brother' or 'sweetheart.'

school bully

A student who uses their power to intimidate others.

bully for you

An expression of praise or encouragement, often sarcastic.

bully pulpit

A position that provides a strong platform to advocate or promote ideas.

intimidate

To frighten or overawe someone, especially in order to make them do what one wants.

harassment

Aggressive pressure or intimidation.

coercion

The practice of persuading someone to do something by using force or threats.

To aggressively dominate or control.

He's always trying to bully the new guy in the office.

To pressure someone into doing something.

Don't let him bully you into making a decision.