bulge
To swell or protrude outward beyond the normal surface, typically due to internal pressure or being overfilled. In a broader sense, it can describe a sudden, temporary increase in volume, quantity, or statistical data within a specific segment.
Examples
3 of 5The backpack began to bulge as he stuffed the last of his heavy textbooks inside.
The backpack began to bulge as he stuffed the last of his heavy textbooks inside.
Structural engineers noted that the retaining wall had begun to bulge outward, indicating a potential for collapse.
Structural engineers noted that the retaining wall had begun to bulge outward, indicating a potential for collapse.
Look at his arms! His muscles are bulging after just a month at the gym.
Look at his arms! His muscles are bulging after just a month at the gym.
Word Family
Memory Tip
Think of a 'Bull' (Bul-) hitting a wall so hard that the wall 'bulges' out on the other side.
Quick Quiz
The suitcase began to ___ because she had packed too many clothes for the trip.
Correct!
The correct answer is: bulge
Examples
The backpack began to bulge as he stuffed the last of his heavy textbooks inside.
everydayThe backpack began to bulge as he stuffed the last of his heavy textbooks inside.
Structural engineers noted that the retaining wall had begun to bulge outward, indicating a potential for collapse.
formalStructural engineers noted that the retaining wall had begun to bulge outward, indicating a potential for collapse.
Look at his arms! His muscles are bulging after just a month at the gym.
informalLook at his arms! His muscles are bulging after just a month at the gym.
The demographic data shows a specific bulge in the population graph representing the post-war generation.
academicThe demographic data shows a specific bulge in the population graph representing the post-war generation.
Warehouse costs rose significantly as inventory levels started to bulge during the off-season.
businessWarehouse costs rose significantly as inventory levels started to bulge during the off-season.
Word Family
Common Collocations
Common Phrases
bulging at the seams
extremely full to the point of breaking
eyes bulging out of one's head
a look of extreme surprise or anger
the middle-age bulge
weight gain around the waist during middle age
Often Confused With
Billow refers to moving or swelling out like a wave or a sail in the wind, whereas bulge refers to a static physical protrusion.
Bloat usually refers to swelling caused by fluid or gas and often carries a negative, unhealthy connotation.
Usage Notes
While often used to describe physical objects, 'bulge' is highly effective in academic writing to describe anomalies or spikes in statistical charts, particularly in demographics and economics.
Common Mistakes
Learners sometimes use 'bulge' to describe any kind of increase, but it must involve a physical or metaphorical 'swelling' or 'protrusion' from a normal line or surface.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'Bull' (Bul-) hitting a wall so hard that the wall 'bulges' out on the other side.
Word Origin
Derived from the Old French 'bouge' meaning 'leather bag', which originally comes from the Latin 'bulga'.
Grammar Patterns
Cultural Context
In English-speaking countries, 'the bulge' is often used in social commentary to refer to the 'Baby Boomer' generation's impact on social services as they age.
Quick Quiz
The suitcase began to ___ because she had packed too many clothes for the trip.
Correct!
The correct answer is: bulge
Related Words
pronumerism
C1To represent or replace numerical values with symbols or letters in an algebraic manner. It involves the systematic practice of using variables (pronumerals) to express mathematical relationships or abstract concepts.
anpatable
C1A noun referring to a state of logical impasse or a situation where no clear path or resolution exists. It is typically used in philosophical or high-level academic discussions to describe a conceptual dead end that prevents further progress.
unicenty
C1To merge several distinct elements, processes, or entities into a single, central point of focus or control. It is often used to describe the strategic consolidation of disparate parts into a unified core system.
homoducty
C1Describing a system or biological structure characterized by having uniform, identical channels or conducting pathways. This term is used to identify a state where all leading vessels or conduits share the same size, direction, or functional capacity.
circumvolvible
C1A rare term referring to an object or property that is capable of being rolled, turned, or revolved around a central axis. In technical contexts, it describes the physical capacity for complete rotation or orbital movement.
superdocation
C1Pertaining to the act or state of providing excessive, superior, or redundant documentation and instruction. It describes a process or document that contains significantly more detail than is standard or strictly necessary for clarity.
redynism
C1To systematically revitalize and inject new energy into a stagnant system, organization, or process. It involves transitioning from a state of inertia to one of active, fluid, and high-performance operation through targeted reforms.
hyperpugous
C1A rare anatomical term referring to the state or physical condition of having exceptionally large or prominent buttocks. It is primarily found in specialized biological, anthropological, or older literary texts to describe extreme physical proportions.
transcivess
C1Describing a state of identity or social involvement that transcends national boundaries and traditional civic constraints. It is typically used in sociological and political contexts to refer to individuals or entities that function across multiple sovereign territories simultaneously.
transhospdom
C1The transitional state or process of a patient moving from a clinical hospital environment back to their domestic or home setting. It encompasses the logistical, psychological, and medical adjustments required to bridge the gap between institutional care and independent living.
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