First Known Use: before 12th century
Dictionary
1hulk
noun \ˈhəlk\
: the main part of something (such as a ship, car, or building) that has been ruined and is no longer used
: a large person
Full Definition of HULK
1
a : a heavy clumsy ship b (1) : the body of an old ship unfit for service (2) : a ship used as a prison —usually used in plural <every prisoner sent to the hulks — Kenneth Roberts> c : an abandoned wreck or shell (as of a building or automobile)
2
: one that is bulky or unwieldy
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Origin of HULK
Middle English hulke, from Old English hulc, probably from Medieval Latin holcas, from Greek holkas, from helkein to pull — more at sulcus
Related to HULK
- Synonyms
- clod, clodhopper, gawk, oaf, lout, lubber, lug, lump, Neanderthal, palooka
2hulk
verb
Definition of HULK
intransitive verb
1
dial English : to move ponderously
2
: to appear impressively large or massive : loom <factories hulked along the river>
First Known Use of HULK
circa 1825
HULK Defined for Kids
hulk
noun \ˈhəlk\
Definition of HULK for Kids
1
: a person or thing that is bulky or clumsy
2
: an abandoned wreck or shell of something (as a ship)
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