corpulence

[ kawr-pyuh-luhns ]

noun

1. bulkiness or largeness of body; fatness; portliness.

Word History and Origins

Origin of corpulence¹

First recorded in 1350–1400; Middle English word from Latin word corpulentia. See corpulent, -ence

Example Sentences

Historically, corpulence was prized in some parts of sub-Saharan Africa.

From New York Times

What has happened to our society in 30 years, where the definition of beauty has morphed into a celebration of unappealing corpulence?

From Washington Times

As Ronald McDonald, Mr. Scott did several local TV commercials for the franchise but was passed over — in consequence of his corpulence, he later said — as its national representative.

From New York Times

His thick musculature having bloated into unhealthy corpulence, Maradona was hospitalized in Buenos Aires in April 2004 with what doctors described as a weakened heart and acute breathing problems.

From New York Times

His striking physical resemblance to his grandfather, channeling his clothing, gait and corpulence, secured his place as the latest iteration of the country’s preordained leadership.

From Los Angeles Times