bully

bully

bully¹ [bool′ē]

n.

pl. bullies [orig., sweetheart < Du boel, lover, brother < MHG buole (Ger buhle), lover, prob. orig. dim. of bruder,BROTHER; later infl. by BULL¹]

1. a person who hurts, frightens, or tyrannizes over those who are smaller or weaker

2. [Brit. Dial.] a companion or comrade

3. Archaic a pimp

4. Archaic a hired cutthroat or thug

5. Archaic a fine fellow

vt.

bullied, bullying

to hurt, frighten, or tyrannize over, as a bully does; browbeat

vi.

to behave like a bully

adj.

1. dashing, hearty, or jolly [my bully lad ]

☆ 2. Informal fine; very good

interj.

☆ Informal good; well done

bully² [bool′ē]

n.

[Fr bouilli, boiled beef < pp. of bouillir,BOIL¹]

canned or corned beef: also bully beef