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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
Vaquero Bandido honors those traditions by leaving the product as natural as possible, with no juices to bulk it up, and an ingredients list showcasing nothing but beef and seasoning. Andrew Watman, Forbes, 12 Mar. 2025 Both the fourth and fifth images came out great, although the fourth one bulked the subject up a little. Rolling Stone, 15 Aug. 2024
Verb
Today, users expect protection without bulk, grip without stickiness, and magnetic precision that works seamlessly with wireless charging. New Atlas, 12 Oct. 2025 The organization said the measure was a threat to internet agreements where companies provide services to apartment complexes and rental homes in bulk and would lead to higher prices. Stephen Hobbs, Sacbee.com, 10 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for bulk
Recent Examples of Synonyms for bulk
Noun
  • But Paz’s party does not hold a majority in the country’s legislature, which will force him to forge alliances to govern effectively.
    Reuters 3 min ago, CNN Money, 20 Oct. 2025
  • Denver has gone completely cold for the majority of their last 12 quarters.
    Luca Evans, Denver Post, 20 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • The average weight for an 11-year-old boy is over 80 lbs.
    Charlotte Phillipp, PEOPLE, 19 Oct. 2025
  • Over-Fussing with the Menu Southerners can be guilty of always assuming there needs to be a table buckling under the weight of food, but there is no need to overthink the menu.
    Kaitlyn Yarborough, Southern Living, 18 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Currently, there are no details on the extent of land burned or the size of the crew involved in conducting the prescribed fire.
    CA WILDFIRE BOT, Sacbee.com, 19 Oct. 2025
  • Orchids need more of a trim to remove dead or spent leaves and flowers to prevent diseases and pests, maintain size, and encourage new blooms.
    Karen Brewer Grossman, Southern Living, 19 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Investors cheered the improbable rise of the amateur heavy metal drummer and hard-line conservative, who’s expected to increase defense spending, cut taxes, and revive Japan’s nuclear power industry.
    Nicholas Gordon, Fortune, 21 Oct. 2025
  • The salt in your food can increase fluid retention in your kidneys, potentially leading to elevated blood pressure,’’ said Pianko.
    Merve Ceylan, Health, 20 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Cumin, coriander, and fennel are often used to help relieve gas and bloating.
    Stephanie Brown, Verywell Health, 17 Oct. 2025
  • Less pressure and gas buildup from bloating may help support easier bowel movements.
    Ashley Wong, Health, 10 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • Aquatic nuisance species are non-native plants and animals that can cause ecological or economic harm, or even harm to human health if introduced to a body of water.
    Arkansas Online, Arkansas Online, 21 Oct. 2025
  • These six full-body blankets rose to the top for heat therapy at home.
    Brigitt Earley, Glamour, 20 Oct. 2025
Noun
  • This choice adds depth and dimension, preventing the room from feeling flat.
    Elizabeth Fogarty, Better Homes & Gardens, 18 Oct. 2025
  • Zimmerman House, which also belongs to the Currier Museum, is an example of Usonian architecture pioneered by Wright featuring horizontal lines, modest dimensions, and open floor plans, and incorporating natural materials such as wood, stone, and brick.
    News Desk, Artforum, 17 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • While some of those numbers were perhaps inflated by PED use, there's no doubt that Ramírez was born to hit.
    Shaun McAvoy, MSNBC Newsweek, 17 Oct. 2025
  • Chan frequently cashed out management, sick and vacation hours, which inflated his total wages to among the highest in the state for city employees.
    Mathew Miranda, Sacbee.com, 15 Oct. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Bulk.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/bulk. Accessed 22 Oct. 2025.

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