Bubble: meaning, definitions and examples

A general term for any small, rounded, floating shape commonly used in graphical interfaces to display extra information or notifications briefly.

• A chat application can show new messages in a small bubble at the bottom of the screen

A small overlay window that appears on top of the main content to show related information or provide additional options without navigating away from the current view.

• Clicking on a user's profile picture can show a popover with basic information and interaction options

A brief, informative message that appears when the user hovers over or focuses on an element, providing context or explanations without clicking.

• Hovering over an icon on the toolbar will show a tooltip explaining the icon's function

An interface element that interrupts the user's current task to prompt them for input, confirm actions, or display information requiring the user's response.

• Before deleting a file, a dialog box may appear asking you to confirm if you want to proceed

This term is often used informally to describe any rapid increase in an asset's price, followed by a sudden drop. It's a general term that can apply to various markets and is commonly understood without financial jargon.

• Many worry that the housing market might be in a bubble.
• The dot-com bubble of the late 1990s saw internet stocks surge dramatically.

This term emphasizes the role of speculation in driving up prices. It's often used in more detailed financial reports or analyses to highlight irrational behavior by investors. It implies a higher risk and sometimes a negative connotation regarding investor behavior.

• The speculative bubble in the real estate market eventually resulted in the 2008 financial crisis.
• A speculative bubble can create an illusion of endless profit but often ends in large-scale losses for many investors.

This phrase is commonly used in financial journalism and analysis. It refers specifically to bubbles in financial markets, such as stocks, bonds, or other securities. It’s suitable for a more formal context.

• The financial bubble in cryptocurrency markets has led to significant financial losses for some investors.
• During the financial bubble, asset prices soared to unprecedented levels.

This term is more specific and is used when discussing economics or finance to indicate a situation where the price of any type of asset, like real estate or stocks, inflates to much higher than their actual value. It's suitable for professional or academic discussions.

• Economists are concerned that we are currently experiencing an asset bubble in the tech sector.
• An asset bubble can lead to severe economic consequences when it bursts.

Used when referring to a small, round pocket of air or gas in a liquid or surface. It can also describe someone talking in a lively, excited manner.

• She blew bubbles in her milk to make her little brother laugh.
• He bubbled over with excitement as he shared his news.

Refers to a rapid, copious flow of liquid, often used for water or emotion, suggesting an uncontrolled surge. It can sometimes carry a negative connotation when referring to being overly sentimental or excessively enthusiastic.

• Water began to gush out of the broken pipe.
• She gushed about her favorite movie star for hours.

Describes a situation where a container cannot hold all the contents, leading to spillage. Often used metaphorically to indicate something in excess or beyond capacity.

• The river overflowed its banks after the heavy rain.
• His inbox overflowed with emails after the big announcement.

Used to describe something filled to the very top edge, often a container or a vessel like a cup or bowl. It can also hint at emotional overflow.

• The cup was filled to the brim with hot coffee.
• Her eyes brimmed with tears of joy.