bulbous

adjective

bul·​bous ˈbəl-bəs How to pronounce bulbous (audio)
Synonyms of bulbousnext
1
: having a bulb : growing from or bearing bulbs
2
: resembling a bulb especially in roundness
a bulbous nose
bulbously adverb

Examples of bulbous in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This charming ceiling fixture brings that same timeless appeal to modern homes, with a bulbous silhouette that adds character to kitchens, dining rooms, and entryways. — Alexandra Emanuelli, Southern Living, 27 July 2026 The result is a bulbous body covered in scraggly fur atop four spindly legs, a stout head and little to no neck. — Drew Pittock, USA Today, 25 July 2026 Our founder explains how to plant and pick the bulbous plant. — Michele Laufik, Martha Stewart, 17 July 2026 The Pikachu — in all his tiny, yellow, bulbous glory — sitting next to the cameras is part of the reason the Angels have won some games lately. — Liana Handler follow, Los Angeles Times, 5 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for bulbous

Word History

First Known Use

1578, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of bulbous was in 1578

Browse Nearby Words

bulbourethral gland
bulbous
bulbous begonia
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Bulbous.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bulbous. Accessed 4 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

bulbous

adjective
bulb·​ous
ˈbəl-bəs
1
: having a bulb : growing from or bearing bulbs
2
: resembling a bulb in being rounded or swollen
a bulbous nose

Medical Definition

bulbous

adjective
bul·​bous ˈbəl-bəs How to pronounce bulbous (audio)
: resembling a bulb especially in roundness or the gross enlargement of a part
the bulbous expansion at the base of a hair

More from Merriam-Webster on bulbous

Thesaurus: All synonyms and antonyms for bulbous

Nglish: Translation of bulbous for Spanish Speakers

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