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Bulldoze Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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bulldoze

[ˈbʊlˌdoʊz ]

Definitions

Context #1 | Verb

construction

To clear, level, or shape an area of land using a bulldozer. It involves pushing earth, rocks, and other materials to create a flat surface.

Synonyms

clear, flatten, level.

Examples of usage

  • The construction crew will bulldoze the site to prepare it for the new building.
  • The developer plans to bulldoze the old factory to make way for a shopping center.
Context #2 | Verb

forceful action

To push through forcefully or ruthlessly, often without regard for others' opinions or feelings.

Synonyms

force, push, steamroll.

Examples of usage

  • The company decided to bulldoze their way through the negotiations.
  • The politician tried to bulldoze the new legislation without proper debate.

Translations

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

Interesting Facts

Technology

  • Bulldozers were first developed in the 1920s, revolutionizing construction and land clearing processes.
  • Modern bulldozers are equipped with advanced technology, including GPS for precise grading and land leveling.
  • The use of bulldozers played a crucial role in urban development and infrastructure projects, enabling faster construction.

Psychology

  • The term 'bulldoze' is often used metaphorically to describe aggressive behaviors in negotiations or personal relationships.
  • People who bulldoze in conversations might overpower others, leading to unproductive discussions or decisions.
  • Understanding when someone is bulldozing can help in developing better communication skills and boundaries.

Literature

  • Bulldozing tactics appear in various literary works to depict assertive or domineering characters.
  • Authors sometimes use the concept of 'bulldozing' to discuss themes of power dynamics and control.
  • In modern literature, this term symbolizes the clash between different ideologies or the struggle for dominance.

Pop Culture

  • The bulldozer has become a symbol of brute strength in films and media, often used in dramatic scenes of destruction.
  • Reality TV and competition shows sometimes showcase 'bulldozing' as a strategy to outmaneuver opponents.
  • Popular songs might use 'bulldoze' as a metaphor for overcoming obstacles in relationships or personal struggles.

Origin of 'bulldoze'

Main points about word origin

  • The term 'bulldoze' originated from 'bull doser,' referring to a person who uses intimidation to force compliance.
  • It entered common English usage in the early 20th century, primarily in American English, relating to heavy machinery.
  • Initially, it described coercive tactics such as bullying, evolving into its current form related to physical force.

The word 'bulldoze' originated in the mid-19th century in the United States. It comes from the combination of 'bull' (meaning large and strong) and 'doze' (meaning to sleep or be inactive). The term was first used to describe the method of clearing land using a bull (or oxen) pulling a large wooden beam. Over time, the term evolved to refer to the use of a bulldozer machine for land clearing and forceful actions.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,513, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.