bullying

American  

[bool-ee-ing] / ˈbʊl i ɪŋ /

noun

1. the act of harassing, intimidating, or abusing others, especially habitually or from a perceived position of relative power.

   Bullying and stress can impact students' experiences at school.

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Other Word Forms

• unbullying adjective

Etymology

Origin of bullying

First recorded in 1675–85; bully ¹ ( def. ) + -ing ¹ ( def. )

Example Sentences

Australia in December banned users under 16 from the world's largest social media platforms, citing the need to protect them from "predatory algorithms" and online bullying.

From Barron's • Mar. 30, 2026

During the trial, lawyers for Meta tried to convince jurors that Kaley’s struggles weren’t caused by social media but by other factors, including bullying at school and tensions at home.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 28, 2026

Barrett, who recalled being a target for predators and online bullying, said her mother was aware of the problems it created but continued to share her daughter’s life on social media.

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 26, 2026

Harteveld set up the Megan's Starr Foundation after her daughter's suicide in 2017 to support young people affected by mental health issues or bullying.

From BBC • Mar. 1, 2026

I’m making some money, and these kids are getting protection from bullying on their walks to and from school.

From "Marcus Vega Doesn't Speak Spanish" by Pablo Cartaya

Related Words

• imperious