cyberbullying

noun

cy·​ber·​bul·​ly·​ing ˈsī-bər-ˌbu̇-lē-iŋ 

-ˌbə-

: the electronic posting of mean-spirited messages about a person (such as a student) often done anonymously

cyberbully

ˈsī-bər-ˌbu̇-lē 

-ˌbə-

noun or verb

Examples of cyberbullying in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Just a quarter of students reported no cyberbullying at their schools. —Cayla Bamberger, New York Daily News, 5 Aug. 2025

The study found links between early smartphone use and poor sleep, cyberbullying, and family strain, especially for girls. —Melissa Willets, Parents, 30 July 2025

The ban aims to improve academic achievement, reduce cyberbullying, and minimize classroom disruptions. —Ruby Grisin, The Courier-Journal, 26 July 2025

Supporters argue that the law could help curb cyberbullying, reduce screen fatigue, and encourage students to engage more in class. —Tiffani Jackson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 25 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1998, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for cyberbullying

• bullying

Kids Definition

cyberbullying

noun

cy·​ber·​bul·​ly·​ing ˈsī-bər-ˈbu̇l-ē-iŋ 

: the electronic posting of mean-spirited messages about a person often done anonymously

cyberbully

-ˈbu̇l-ē 

noun or verb

Legal Definition

cyberbullying

noun

cy·​ber·​bul·​ly·​ing ˈsī-bər-ˌbu̇-lē-iŋ, -ˌbə- 

: the verbal bullying of someone (as a classmate) through the use of often anonymous electronic communication (as online posts or text messages) see also cyberstalking