First Known Use: 1778
Dictionary
John Bull
noun \-ˈbu̇l\
: the people or country of England
: a typical Englishman
Full Definition of JOHN BULL
1
: the English nation personified : the English people
2
: a typical Englishman
— John Bull·ish \-ˈbu̇-lish\ adjective
— John Bull·ish·ness noun
— John Bull·ism \-ˌli-zəm\ noun
See John Bull defined for English-language learners
ADVERTISEMENT
Origin of JOHN BULL
John Bull, character typifying the English nation in The History of John Bull (1712) by John Arbuthnot
Learn More About JOHN BULL
Browse
Next Word in the Dictionary: John ChinamanPrevious Word in the Dictionary: John BrownAll Words Near: John Bull
ADVERTISEMENT
Seen & Heard
What made you want to look up John Bull? Please tell us where you read or heard it (including the quote, if possible).