bulky

adjective

ˈbəl-kē 

also ˈbu̇l-

bulkier; bulkiest

1

a

: having bulk

b(1)

: large of its kind

(2)

: corpulent

2

: having great volume in proportion to weight

a bulky knit sweater

bulkily

ˈbəl-kə-lē 

adverb

bulkiness

ˈbəl-kē-nəs 

noun

Synonyms of bulky

• large
• sizable
• substantial
• oversize
• considerable
• big
• handsome
• huge

Examples of bulky in a Sentence

a big, bulky football player

bulky packages might cost more to mail

Recent Examples on the Web

Even celebrities like Nicole Kidman have been spotted embracing this luxe trend, proving its status as a sleek alternative to chunky athletic shoes that feel heavy and overly bulky on the move. —Julia Morlino, Travel + Leisure, 21 June 2026

Wash heavy or bulky items (like jeans and sweats) together, and wash lightweight and delicate garments together to prevent damage. —Jolie Kerr, Better Homes & Gardens, 21 June 2026

No bulky bottles or spills, portable liquid mouthwash sticks are great for travel and commuting. —ABC News, 20 June 2026

Extra storage doesn’t have to be bulky—just check out this compact accent cabinet. —Shea Simmons, Southern Living, 20 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

15th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for bulky

• sulky

Kids Definition

bulky

adjective

ˈbəl-kē 

bulkier; bulkiest

1

: large in size or mass

2

: being large and hard to handle

bulkiness noun