I. ˈbu̇lē, -li noun
( -es )
Etymology: probably modification of Dutch boel lover, from Middle Dutch boele, from Middle High German buole, probably alteration (baby talk) of bruoder brother — more at brother
1. archaic
a. : sweetheart , darling — used of either sex
b. : a good fellow : a fine chap
2.
a. archaic : a man of outstanding physical powers
b. : a blustering fellow more insolent than courageous : one given to hectoring, browbeating, and threatening ; especially : one habitually threatening, harsh, or cruel to others weaker or smaller than himself
c. : the protector of a prostitute : pimp , pander
3.
a. : a hired ruffian : bravo
b. dialect Britain : a fellow workman : mate
c. : keelboatman
d. : the boss of a logging camp
4.
a. : any of several blennioid fishes
b. : any of several gobies
II. adjective
( sometimes -er/-est )
1. of a person : jovial , dashing , gallant — used especially in bully boy, a term of familiar address
2. : of the best quality : excellent , first-rate
what a bully car
that's a bully idea
3. : like, characteristic of, or in the manner of a bully
don't try your bully tricks around here
III. verb
( -ed/-ing/-es )
transitive verb
: to intimidate by an overbearing swaggering demeanor or by threats : act the part of a bully toward : domineer
intransitive verb
: to act as a bully : bluster
Synonyms: see intimidate
IV. interjection
Etymology: bully (II)
— used to express satisfaction, congratulation, or pleasure
V. adverb
Etymology: bully (II)
: very , extremely , outstandingly
a bully good dinner
VI. noun
or bully beef
( -es )
Etymology: probably modification of French ( bœuf ) bouilli boiled beef, from bouilli, past participle of bouillir to boil — more at boil
: pickled or canned usually corned beef
VII. noun
( -es )
Etymology: origin unknown
: a procedure of putting the ball in play in field hockey in which two opposing players face one another and alternately strike the ground and the opponent's stick three times after which the ball may be played
VIII. verb
( -ed/-ing/-es )
transitive verb
: to put (a field hockey ball) in play with a bully
intransitive verb
: to put a field hockey ball in play with a bully