bulk 1 of 2

Definition of bulknext
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bulk

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verb

Synonym Chooser

How is the word bulk different from other nouns like it?

The words mass and volume are common synonyms of bulk. While all three words mean "the aggregate that forms a body or unit," bulk implies an aggregate that is impressively large, heavy, or numerous.

the darkened bulk of the skyscrapers

Where would mass be a reasonable alternative to bulk?

While in some cases nearly identical to bulk, mass suggests an aggregate made by piling together things of the same kind.

a mass of boulders

When could volume be used to replace bulk?

The words volume and bulk are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, volume applies to an aggregate without shape or outline and capable of flowing or fluctuating.

a tremendous volume of water

Example Sentences

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.
Recent Examples of bulk
Noun
For one, consuming fiber helps with digestion by adding bulk to stools and softening them, which helps ease constipation. Cathy Cassata, Health, 24 June 2026 Kate Spade’s Liv Shoulder Bag is the perfect going-out purse, fitting all your littlest essentials without any annoying bulk. Annie Blackman, InStyle, 24 June 2026
Verb
Add shredded chicken to bulk it up further, or finish it with a dollop of sour cream, some fresh cilantro, or a bit of shredded cheese. Martha Stewart, 15 Jan. 2026 Just bulk those puppies out, stop wasting your time. Lauryn Overhultz, FOXNews.com, 13 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for bulk
Recent Examples of Synonyms for bulk
Noun
  • Miami-Dade and Palm Beach together account for the overwhelming majority of Florida’s survivor population.
    Masha Pearl, Sun Sentinel, 5 July 2026
  • If a simple majority of the workers vote to unionize, the union is then certified.
    Talia Soglin, Chicago Tribune, 5 July 2026
Noun
  • And at roughly 100 calories per tablespoon apiece, both butter and margarine can be calorie-dense, making either choice capable of causing unwanted weight gain.
    Daryl Austin, USA Today, 25 June 2026
  • That index is considered to be more accurate than the Body Mass Index, which is only based on weight and height.
    Rosemary Feitelberg, Footwear News, 24 June 2026
Noun
  • Its compact size and functional interior and exterior pockets will make zipping through airport security or stopping for gas on road trips a breeze — no more digging through disorganized totes to locate your wallet and phone.
    Averi Baudler, PEOPLE, 1 July 2026
  • The park's smaller size and layout are intended to be manageable for young children and their families.
    Eve Chen, USA Today, 1 July 2026
Verb
  • The state also has goals, including some that have been in place since 2012, that set declining limits on smog-causing pollutants and required automakers to sell increasing percentages of electric and hybrid vehicles through 2025.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 3 July 2026
  • The news came a day before Liz reported on Hong Kong’s beleaguered cinema market finally having an upturn, with overall box office revenues increasing by 25% thanks to a strong line-up of local and Hollywood releases.
    Max Goldbart, Deadline, 3 July 2026
Verb
  • This was accompanied by sickness, bloating and diarrhea.
    Adam England, PEOPLE, 13 May 2026
  • These might include cramping, nausea, bloating, diarrhea, or an irritated rectum, Hazan says, as well as dehydration or electrolyte imbalances, which can affect heart or kidney function.
    Erica Sweeney, Time, 11 May 2026
Noun
  • Mourners beat their chests rhythmically in the intense summer heat, the wails of women cutting through the noise as the body of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was unveiled beneath a glass case at the Grand Mosalla.
    Nadeen Ebrahim, CNN Money, 4 July 2026
  • But Vozinha dived, fully extended his body, and knocked the ball away.
    Tim Rohan, NBC news, 4 July 2026
Noun
  • Standard container dimensions also enable civilian transportation infrastructure to move military assets with relative ease, improving operational flexibility, reported SCMP.
    Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 3 July 2026
  • Meanwhile, Dyrholm focused on exploring the different dimensions of Vibeke.
    Georg Szalai, HollywoodReporter, 2 July 2026
Verb
  • The delay has raised questions about the condition of his son and successor, and criticism from detractors who say the state is trying to inflate attendance.
    Nadeen Ebrahim, CNN Money, 1 July 2026
  • Turkey denies that the deaths constituted genocide, saying the toll has been inflated and that those killed were victims of civil war and unrest.
    Los Angeles Times, Los Angeles Times, 30 June 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Bulk.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/bulk. Accessed 5 Jul. 2026.

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