Bulky

Part of Speech

Adjective

Pronunciation

/ˈbʌlki/

Definitions

1. Adjective: Large and cumbersome; taking up much space. Example: "The bulky package was hard to carry up the stairs."

2. Adjective: Excessively large or heavy in a way that makes something difficult to handle or move. Example: "The bulky furniture filled up the entire room."

Usage Examples

1. "He struggled to move the bulky suitcase through the airport." (Adjective)

2. "The bulky design of the car made parking in small spaces difficult." (Adjective)

Etymology

The word "bulky" comes from the noun "bulk," which means the majority or size of something. "Bulk" itself comes from the Old Norse word "bolk," which means a large mass or piece of something. The "-y" suffix is used to turn the noun into an adjective, describing something that has the characteristics of bulk—namely, being large and heavy.

Synonyms

• Heavy
• Large
• Massive
• Cumbersome
• Oversized

Antonyms

• Compact
• Slim
• Light
• Small
• Petite

Translations

Regional Pronunciation Variations

The pronunciation of "bulky" may vary slightly depending on regional accents. In some dialects, the "l" may be more pronounced, while in others, the "y" sound at the end may be softened or even omitted. For example, in Southern American English, "bulky" might sound more like "buh-lee" with a softened "k" sound.

Historical Usage

The term "bulky" has been in use since the 16th century, with its meaning related to the bulk or mass of an object. Initially, it referred to anything that was large or heavy in size, often with the connotation of being difficult to manage or carry. The word has remained in common usage due to its applicability in describing large physical objects, such as containers, vehicles, or even people.

Cultural Nuances

The concept of "bulkiness" is often tied to the cultural perception of size and capacity. In many contexts, bulky items or objects can be seen as a sign of robustness, strength, or durability. However, in modern cultures where efficiency and compactness are valued, something described as bulky might be viewed negatively, symbolizing inconvenience or lack of innovation.

More Information

The word "bulky" is frequently used in contexts ranging from descriptions of physical objects to discussions about personal traits. In the world of shipping and logistics, bulkier items often require special handling, transportation, and storage due to their size and weight. In other fields, such as fashion or technology, bulky may be used to refer to outdated designs or products that are larger than necessary for their function. The term is often contrasted with more streamlined or efficient alternatives in the pursuit of better utility and modernity.