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Bulbous: meaning, definitions and examples

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bulbous

 

[ ˈbʌlbəs ]

Adjective
Context #1 | Adjective

shape description

Bulbous refers to something that is rounded or swollen in shape, resembling a bulb. It is often used to describe various objects that have a protuberant form, such as certain plants, flowers, or even body parts.

Synonyms

plump, protruding, rounded, swollen

Examples of usage

  • The bulbous end of the plant drew my attention.
  • He wore a bulbous hat that seemed to float above his head.
  • The bulbous fish swam gracefully through the coral reef.

Translations

Translations of the word "bulbous" in other languages:

🇵🇹 bulboso

🇮🇳 बल्बनुमा

🇩🇪 knollig

🇮🇩 bulbous

🇺🇦 круглий

🇵🇱 bulwiasty

🇯🇵 球根状の

🇫🇷 bulbeux

🇪🇸 bulboso

🇹🇷 soğan şeklinde

🇰🇷 구근 모양의

🇸🇦 كروي

🇨🇿 bulbózní

🇸🇰 cibuľovitý

🇨🇳 球茎状的

🇸🇮 koreninast

🇮🇸 kúpt

🇰🇿 түйіршік тәрізді

🇬🇪 ბულბუსური

🇦🇿 soğanvari

🇲🇽 bulboso

Word origin

The word 'bulbous' is derived from the Latin 'bulbus', meaning 'bulb', which itself comes from the Greek word 'bolbos'. The term has evolved over time to describe not only the physical shape of objects but also to connote a sense of swelling or roundness. Its usage in English dates back to the early 18th century, reflecting the botanical terminology prevalent during that era, especially as gardening and plant care became popular among the middle classes. The adjective 'bulbous' has consistently been linked to both natural forms in botany, where many flowers and plants have bulbous bases, and in everyday language where it describes anything that is notably round or swollen.

Word Frequency Rank

Positioned at #20,825, this word is part of extensive vocabulary. It's relatively rare in general usage but may be important in specific fields or formal writing.