bullying

[ bool-ee-ing ]

noun

1. the act of harassing, intimidating, or abusing others, especially habitually or from a perceived position of relative power:

   Bullying and stress can impact students' experiences at school.

Other Words From

• un·bul·ly·ing adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of bullying¹

First recorded in 1675–85; bully ¹( def ) + -ing ¹( def )

Example Sentences

Ana said the culture Foden created at Ysgol Friars was "suppressive, toxic, fearsome and bullying".

From BBC

They have a remarkable tolerance for crass and bullying behavior, care little for empathy and ethics, and are incapable of weighing basic facts about public life.

From Salon

In their request for a lenient sentence, Teixeira's lawyers argued in court filings that the airman was the target of bullying while in high school and his military unit, and that he had suffered from isolation.

From BBC

The Western figures intent on racking up trading victories are hilariously sent up in “Please Hello,” a Gilbert and Sullivan inspired number that nonetheless maintains the Japanese point of view on these bullying capitalists.

From Los Angeles Times

This bullying campaign is indicative of why most Republican senators haven’t wanted Scott to lead them in the past.

From Slate

Related Words

• imperious