How Do You Spell BULL?

Pronunciation: [bˈʊl] (IPA)

The word "bull" in English is spelled with four letters, but its pronunciation requires several different phonemes. Using IPA phonetic transcription, we can see that "bull" is pronounced as /bʊl/. The first phoneme /b/ represents the voiced bilabial plosive, while the vowel sound /ʊ/ is a near-close near-back rounded vowel. The final sound /l/ is represented by the alveolar lateral approximant. Together, these three sounds form the distinct and easily recognizable word "bull."

BULL Meaning and Definition

  1. Bull, as a noun, refers to a male bovine mammal, usually characterized by its muscular body, large size, and prominent horns. It is typically larger and more aggressive compared to its female counterpart, the cow. Bulls are commonly found in domesticated livestock farming and play a prominent role in various cultures and societies, symbolizing strength, power, and masculinity.

    Additionally, the term "bull" can also denote a person who is bullish or optimistic about the rise and growth of financial markets. In the context of stock markets, a bull is an investor who expects the prices of securities to increase and actively engages in buying shares or other assets in anticipation of capital gains.

    Moreover, "bull" is occasionally employed metaphorically to depict someone who behaves in a forceful, aggressive, or stubborn manner. In such cases, it might refer to a person who is uncompromising, determined, or inclined to dominate or intimidate others through physical or verbal means.

    Furthermore, "bull" can be utilized as a verb in the context of financial markets, indicating the act of pushing or driving up the prices of assets by creating an optimistic atmosphere or spreading favorable information that influences investors' decisions to buy.

    In summary, "bull" can refer to a male bovine, a person who is optimistic about financial markets, or someone displaying forceful or aggressive behavior.

  2. • The male of the cow kind; in Scrip., a fierce and powerful enemy.
    • A name at first applied to the seal attached to an edict of the Pope, but now applied to the edict itself; a blunder; in the Stock Exchange, those who try to raise the price of stocks are called bulls, and those who try to lower their price, bears.

    Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Top Common Misspellings for BULL *

* The statistics data for these misspellings percentages are collected from over 15,411,110 spell check sessions on www.spellchecker.net from Jan 2010 - Jun 2012.

Other Common Misspellings for BULL

Etymology of BULL

The word bull can be traced back to Old English, where it was spelled bula. It is derived from the Proto-Germanic word bullo, which means male bovine. This in turn is believed to be derived from the Proto-Indo-European root bhel, meaning to inflate, swell. It is thought to be associated with the idea of the animal's strength and vigor. The word bull has retained this meaning throughout different Germanic languages, including Old High German bull, Dutch bul, and German Bulle.

Idioms with the word BULL

  • take the bull by the horns The idiom "take the bull by the horns" means to confront or deal with a difficult or challenging situation directly and without hesitation. It refers to taking control, being proactive, and facing problems head-on instead of avoiding or ignoring them.
  • shoot the bull The idiom "shoot the bull" means to engage in casual, lighthearted conversation, typically with no particular purpose or goal. It involves chatting or talking about various topics without any serious or significant intention.
  • John Bull The idiom "John Bull" refers to a personification of the typical Englishman or the embodiment of the British national character. It symbolizes the qualities and stereotypes associated with the English people, such as being patriotic, fair, honest, and conservative. It is often used to represent England or the British government in political cartoons, literature, or discussions involving British identity.
  • the Bull The idiom "the Bull" refers to someone who is aggressive, assertive, or dominant in their behavior or actions. It typically describes an individual who takes charge, makes decisions forcefully, and may not easily back down or compromise.
  • bull-dagger The idiom "bull-dagger" is considered a derogatory slang term used to refer to a lesbian, particularly one who is more masculine in appearance or behavior. It is important to note that this term is offensive and disrespectful, and it is recommended to use inclusive and respectful language when referring to individuals or groups.
  • bull-headed The idiom "bull-headed" refers to someone who is stubborn, inflexible, or unyielding in their thoughts, opinions, or actions. It implies that the person is determined to do things their own way and may be resistant to considering alternative viewpoints or suggestions. The term "bull-headed" is often used to describe individuals who are obstinate, resistant to compromise, or unwilling to change their stance on a given matter.
  • bull-pucky The idiom "bull-pucky" refers to a colloquial expression used to dismiss or call something nonsense or untrue.
  • full of bull The idiom "full of bull" means to be completely or excessively full of lies, exaggerations, nonsense, or deceitful information. It is often used to describe someone who habitually tells untrue or wildly embellished stories and claims.
  • grab the bull by its horns To "grab the bull by its horns" means to confront a difficult situation directly and courageously, rather than avoiding or ignoring it. It implies taking control, being proactive, and facing challenges head-on.
  • grab the bull by the horns The idiom "grab the bull by the horns" means to face a difficult or challenging situation directly and with courage, taking control of it rather than avoiding or being overwhelmed by it.
  • in the bull pen The idiom "in the bull pen" typically refers to someone who is waiting or preparing to take action, often in a sporting context. It originates from baseball, where the bull pen is the area in a baseball stadium where relief pitchers warm up and wait until they are ready to enter the game. Outside of baseball, the idiom can be used more broadly to describe someone who is waiting and prepared for their turn or opportunity to act.
  • take the bull by its horns The idiom "take the bull by its horns" means to face a difficult or challenging situation directly and with confidence, rather than avoiding or procrastinating it. It refers to confronting a problem head-on and taking decisive action to resolve it, often involving courage, determination, and a proactive approach.
  • mess with the bull and you get the horns The idiom "mess with the bull and you get the horns" means that if someone provokes or antagonizes a powerful or dangerous person or situation, they should expect to face the consequences or be harmed as a result. It implies that engaging in risky or foolhardy behavior can lead to unwanted and negative outcomes.
  • company bull The idiom "company bull" refers to someone who talks excessively or brags about themselves or their achievements in a social or professional setting, often trying to impress others. It implies that this person tends to dominate conversations with their own stories or opinions, sometimes disregarding the interests or contributions of others.
  • Bull Trap The idiom "Bull Trap" refers to a deceptive market situation where there appears to be an upward trend or potential for a bull market, luring investors to buy securities or assets, only for prices to quickly reverse and decline. It is characterized by a false signal of market strength, leading investors to make hasty and ultimately wrong investment decisions. Essentially, a bull trap is a market trap that entices investors into buying before a subsequent downturn occurs.
  • like waving a red flag in front of a bull The idiom "like waving a red flag in front of a bull" refers to an action or behavior that attracts attention or provokes someone's anger or aggression. It implies that the action or behavior is deliberately challenging or provocative, often resulting in a negative or hostile response.
  • couldn't hit a bull in the ass with a bass fiddle The idiom "couldn't hit a bull in the ass with a bass fiddle" is a colorful expression used to convey someone's complete lack of aim, accuracy, or skill in a particular task. It suggests that the person is so inept that they couldn't even hit a large target like a bull's behind with a relatively large instrument like a bass fiddle.
  • be like a bull in a china shop The idiom "be like a bull in a china shop" is used to describe someone who is extremely clumsy, reckless, or lacking grace and finesse in their actions or behavior. It implies that the person is likely to cause damage, disruptions, or create a mess due to their lack of care or awareness of their surroundings.
  • a red rag to a bull The idiom "a red rag to a bull" means something that provokes or incites strong anger, agitation, or aggression in someone. It is often used to describe a situation, action, or statement that is highly inflammatory or likely to cause a negative reaction, similar to waving a red cloth in front of an already agitated bull.
  • shoot the breeze/bull The idiom "shoot the breeze/bull" means to engage in casual, lighthearted conversation or small talk, often about trivial or unimportant matters. It implies engaging in a relaxed and leisurely conversation with no specific objective or purpose.
  • be full of bull The idiom "be full of bull" means to be speaking or expressing exaggerated, misleading, or untrue statements. It refers to someone who is being insincere, dishonest, or intentionally deceptive in their words or actions.
  • hung like a bull The idiom "hung like a bull" is a colloquial expression usually used in a humorous or vulgar manner to describe a man who is believed to have a large or impressive sexual organ.
  • cock and bull story The idiom "cock and bull story" refers to an elaborate or far-fetched tale or explanation that is highly unlikely to be true or believable. It typically implies that the story is invented, exaggerated, or fabricated, often for the purpose of deceiving or misleading others.
  • a red flag to a bull The idiom "a red flag to a bull" refers to something that provokes a strong, immediate, and often negative reaction in someone. It originated from the bullfighting arena, where a red flag is used to provoke and agitate the bull. Therefore, when something is described as "a red flag to a bull," it signifies a potential trigger or an action that will surely incite anger, aggression, or a hostile response.
  • throw the bull The definition of the idiom "throw the bull" is to engage in idle talk or exaggeration; to tell exaggerated or made-up stories in order to impress or deceive others.
  • bull session The idiom "bull session" refers to a casual or informal conversation, often among a group of people, where various topics are discussed in an open and free-flowing manner. It typically involves light-hearted banter, sharing of opinions and ideas, without any specific goal or agenda.
  • a cock and bull story The idiom "a cock and bull story" refers to a long and improbable tale or explanation that is often exaggerated or fabricated. It suggests that the story is highly imaginative but lacking in credibility or truthfulness.
  • like a bull at a gate The idiom "like a bull at a gate" refers to someone who is very eager, impulsive, or reckless in their actions. It describes a person who charges forward without caution or thought, much like a bull charging forcefully at a gate.
  • (as) strong as a bull The idiom "(as) strong as a bull" means to possess exceptional physical strength or power, often used to describe someone who is very muscular or powerful.
  • be like a red rag to a bull The idiom "be like a red rag to a bull" means to provoke or infuriate someone easily, typically causing a strong and aggressive reaction.
  • bull in a china shop The idiom "bull in a china shop" refers to someone who is careless, clumsy, or lacks tact and grace when navigating delicate or sensitive situations. It describes a person who, like a bull, can unintentionally cause damage or disruption by their rough and impulsive behavior in situations that require more finesse and caution.
  • like a bull in a china shop The idiom "like a bull in a china shop" is used to describe someone who is extremely clumsy, reckless, or lacking finesse in their movements or actions. It refers to a person who causes destruction or disruption, often unintentionally, in situations that require delicacy or care.
  • a bull in a china shop The idiom "a bull in a china shop" refers to someone who is clumsy, careless, or destructive in their actions or behaviors, often causing unintentional damage or chaos in a delicate or fragile situation.
  • be like a red flag to a bull The idiom "be like a red flag to a bull" refers to something that provokes or angers someone instantly and intensely. It implies that the reaction is immediate and uncontrollable, similar to how a bull would react aggressively upon seeing a red flag.
  • Banbury story of a cock and a bull The idiom "Banbury story of a cock and a bull" refers to a tale or anecdote that is considered implausible, exaggerated, or lacking credibility. It implies that the story being told is unbelievable or may contain false or exaggerated elements. The phrase originated from the town of Banbury in England, where a statue known as the Banbury Cross stood, featuring images of a cockerel and a bull. The term is often used to dismiss or discredit a far-fetched or unreliable narrative.
  • bull bitch
  • milk the bull
  • wear the bull's feather To "wear the bull's feather" means to boast or act with arrogance and brashness, often in a way that is intended to intimidate others. It refers to someone who behaves aggressively or pompously, similar to the way a bull might strut or flaunt its plumage.
  • Boston bull terrier A Boston bull terrier is a term used to refer to a small, muscular dog breed known for its distinctive tuxedo-like coat pattern and friendly nature. They are often used as family pets or therapy dogs.
  • hit the bull'seye The idiom "hit the bull's eye" means to achieve a goal or target perfectly and accurately. It typically refers to accomplishing something in a precise and skillful manner.
  • hit the bull's-eye To hit the bull's-eye means to achieve a successful outcome or make a correct guess or prediction with precision and accuracy. It often refers to achieving a goal or target precisely.
  • shoot the breeze (or the bull) To chat or converse in a relaxed and informal manner; to engage in casual conversation.

Similar spelling words for BULL

Plural form of BULL is BULLS

Conjugate verb Bull

CONDITIONAL PERFECT

I would have bulled
you would have bulled
he/she/it would have bulled
we would have bulled
they would have bulled
I would have bull
you would have bull
he/she/it would have bull
we would have bull
they would have bull

CONDITIONAL PERFECT PROGRESSIVE

I would have been bulling
you would have been bulling
he/she/it would have been bulling
we would have been bulling
they would have been bulling

CONDITIONAL PRESENT

I would bull
you would bull
he/she/it would bull
we would bull
they would bull

CONDITIONAL PRESENT PROGRESSIVE

I would be bulling
you would be bulling
he/she/it would be bulling
we would be bulling
they would be bulling

FUTURE

I will bull
you will bull
he/she/it will bull
we will bull
they will bull

FUTURE CONTINUOUS

I will be bulling
you will be bulling
he/she/it will be bulling
we will be bulling
they will be bulling

FUTURE PERFECT

I will have bulled
you will have bulled
he/she/it will have bulled
we will have bulled
they will have bulled

FUTURE PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I will have been bulling
you will have been bulling
he/she/it will have been bulling
we will have been bulling
they will have been bulling

IMPERATIVE

you bull
we let´s bull

NONFINITE VERB FORMS

to bull

PAST CONTINUOUS

I was bulling
you were bulling
he/she/it was bulling
we were bulling
they were bulling

PAST PARTICIPLE

bulled

PAST PERFECT

I had bulled
you had bulled
he/she/it had bulled
we had bulled
they had bulled

PAST PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I had been bulling
you had been bulling
he/she/it had been bulling
we had been bulling
they had been bulling

PRESENT

I bull
you bull
he/she/it bulls
we bull
they bull

PRESENT CONTINUOUS

I am bulling
you are bulling
he/she/it is bulling
we are bulling
they are bulling

PRESENT PARTICIPLE

bulling

PRESENT PERFECT

I have bulled
you have bulled
he/she/it has bulled
we have bulled
they have bulled

PRESENT PERFECT CONTINUOUS

I have been bulling
you have been bulling
he/she/it has been bulling
we have been bulling
they have been bulling

PRESENT SUBJUNCTIVE

he/she/it bull

SIMPLE PAST

I bulled
you bulled
he/she/it bulled
we bulled
they bulled

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