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Bulky Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

๐Ÿ“ฆ
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bulky

[หˆbสŒlki ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Adjective

describing size

Taking up a lot of space and often awkward or difficult to move around.

Synonyms

big, large, massive.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bulky

Use 'bulky' when referring to something that takes up a lot of space or is difficult to handle due to its size and shape. Often used for objects that are large and awkward.

  • The box was too bulky to carry through the narrow door.
  • She found the bulky sweater too uncomfortable to wear.
large

Use 'large' to describe something that is bigger than average. It is slightly more formal than 'big' and can be used to describe both physical size and quantities.

  • He lives in a large house on the hill.
  • The company made a large investment in new technology.
big

Use 'big' when describing something that is large in size or amount. It is a general term and can be used in many different situations.

  • She has a big dog that guards her house.
  • The movie was a big success.
massive

Use 'massive' to describe something that is extremely large, often implying it is impressive or overwhelming in size. It can also have a slightly more formal or dramatic tone.

  • The massive stadium could hold over 100,000 people.
  • The treeโ€™s massive trunk was several meters in diameter.

Examples of usage

  • The bulky furniture made the room feel crowded.
  • She struggled to carry the bulky package up the stairs.
Context #2 | Noun

describing a person

A person who is large in body or size.

Synonyms

big individual, large person.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

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Word Description / Examples
bulky

Used to describe someone who is large in size, often with a muscular build. It may also imply that the person is somewhat clumsy or awkward due to their size. This term has a neutral to mildly negative connotation.

  • The football player was a bulky individual, towering over everyone else.
  • Carrying the bulky man up the stairs was quite a challenge for the paramedics.
large person

A straightforward and neutral way to describe someone who is larger than average in either height or weight. It does not imply any specific characteristics apart from size.

  • He is a large person, and he often struggles to find clothes that fit.
  • The gym was filled with large people lifting heavy weights.
big individual

A neutral term used to describe someone who is large in size, whether in height, breadth, or overall build. This term does not carry any connotations regarding the person's abilities or characteristics.

  • She was a big individual, standing over six feet tall.
  • The bouncer at the club was a big individual who ensured everyone followed the rules.

Examples of usage

  • He was a bulky man with broad shoulders.
  • The bulky football player stood out on the field.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Everyday Applications

  • Furniture like sofas and cabinets are often described as bulky, as they require ample space in a room.
  • In packaging, bulky items can increase shipping costs due to their size, regardless of weight.
  • Clothing labeled as 'bulky' usually refers to thicker garments like sweaters, which occupy more room in closets.

Pop Culture

  • In films, bulky characters often represent strength, like superheroes or action heroes, emphasizing their physical presence.
  • The phrase 'bulky but beautiful' has been used in design to describe oversized art pieces that dominate a space.
  • In gaming, bulky avatars can symbolize power and durability, impacting gameplay strategies.

Science

  • In physics, the bulkiness of an object influences its friction against surfaces, relationships vital in designs of vehicles and machinery.
  • In ecology, bulky animals, like bears or elephants, play significant roles in their ecosystems due to their size and impact on habitats.
  • When studying materials, bulkiness can relate to porosity, affecting insulation or buoyancy properties.

Psychology

  • Bulky objects can affect our perception of space, making areas feel smaller or more cluttered.
  • Studies show that people often associate bulkiness with strength and safety, impacting consumer decisions.
  • In social psychology, bulky body types can influence biases and stereotypes regarding health and lifestyle.

Origin of 'bulky'

Main points about word origin

  • The word 'bulky' comes from the late Middle English term 'bulk,' which means a large mass or body.
  • Originally used to describe large ships, its meaning evolved to include any large object or person.
  • The term is rooted in the Old Norse word 'bulkr,' which means 'a great size or bulk.'

The word 'bulky' originated in the late 18th century from the English word 'bulk' meaning 'mass'. It has been used to describe large and cumbersome objects or people ever since.

See also: bulk, bulkier.

Word Frequency Rank

At position #12,550, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.