First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
1bulge
verb \ˈbəlj also ˈbu̇lj\
: to stick out in a rounded lump
: to be completely filled with something
bulgedbulg·ing
Full Definition of BULGE
transitive verb
: to cause to bulge
intransitive verb
1
archaic : bilge
2
3
: to be filled to overflowing <a notebook bulging with ideas>
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See bulge defined for kids
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Origin of BULGE
Middle English bolgen
2bulge
noun
: a rounded lump on the surface of something
: a sudden increase
Full Definition of BULGE
2
: a protuberant or swollen part or place
3
4
: sudden expansion
— bulgy \ˈbəl-jē also ˈbu̇l-\ adjective
See bulge defined for English-language learners
Origin of BULGE
Middle English boulge, bouge leather bag, curved part, from Anglo-French bouge bag — more at budget
First Known Use: 1622
Related to BULGE
- Synonyms
- bunch, convexity, jut, overhang, projection, protrusion, protuberance, swell
Synonym Discussion of BULGE
projection, protrusion, protuberance, bulge mean an extension beyond the normal line or surface. projection implies a jutting out especially at a sharp angle <those projections along the wall are safety hazards>. protrusion suggests a thrusting out so that the extension seems a deformity <the bizarre protrusions of a coral reef>. protuberance implies a growing or swelling out in rounded form <a skin disease marked by warty protuberances>. bulge suggests an expansion caused by internal pressure <bulges in the tile floor>.
BULGING Defined for Kids
1bulge
verb \ˈbəlj\
bulgedbulg·ing
Definition of BULGE for Kids
: to swell or curve outward <Muscles bulged from his shirt.>
2bulge
noun
Definition of BULGE for Kids
: a swelling part : a part that sticks out
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