bulk 1 of 2

1
2
3

bulk

2 of 2

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
The bills, named for the global pop star — and the frantic rush to get tickets for her shows around the country — strengthen penalties for using bots to buy tickets in bulk and give the state attorney general the ability to investigate potential violations of the law. Arpan Lobo, Freep.com, 8 Sep. 2025 Christoforous recommended buying in bulk during sales to save money throughout the year, especially for basic supplies like pencils and pens. Doc Louallen, ABC News, 4 Sep. 2025 See All Example Sentences for bulk
Recent Examples of Synonyms for bulk
Noun
  • The Las Vegas bookmakers see Philadelphia as a favorite to defeat the Chiefs on Sunday, and the vast majority of NFL media members also like the Eagles’ chances to win at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium.
    Pete Grathoff, Kansas City Star, 14 Sep. 2025
  • However, the majority of those weighing in have argued that her profile should be kept, writing that there is significant public interest in her now due to current headlines.
    Michael Dorgan, FOXNews.com, 14 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • To maintain comparability, the weights assigned to these criteria have been held constant.
    Christopher Elliott, Forbes.com, 14 Sep. 2025
  • This happens when water in front of the tire builds up faster than the vehicle's weight can push water out of the way.
    NC Weather Bot, Charlotte Observer, 13 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • For those scoring at home, that means the average field size was ten which makes for great competition.
    Danny Brewer, Forbes.com, 15 Sep. 2025
  • On top of that, a gallery rail system easily accommodates different frame sizes, shapes, weights, and thicknesses, which allows for ultra-layered, completely unique arrangements.
    Lauren Bengtson, Better Homes & Gardens, 14 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Start with once daily, and if your skin can handle it, gradually increase to two or three times per week.
    Lily Wohlner, Allure, 16 Sep. 2025
  • When a La Niña phase occurs, less wind shear occurs in the regions of the Atlantic basin where tropical weather develops, increasing the potential for more storms, AccuWeather said.
    Doyle Rice, USA Today, 16 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Cue: a surge of IBS symptoms, which can include abdominal pain, bloating, and typically either constipation, diarrhea, or both.
    Erica Sloan, SELF, 27 Aug. 2025
  • His removal comes amid broader Trump administration frustrations with the DIA, including slow development of its MARS data system and criticism from Elon Musk's efficiency team, which branded the agency bloated.
    Martha McHardy, MSNBC Newsweek, 23 Aug. 2025
Noun
  • The Harvest Grapeseed Ritual begins with a dry brush and exfoliating scrub, followed by a rich body butter and a glass of Elusa Cabernet Sauvignon.
    Michael Goldstein, Forbes.com, 16 Sep. 2025
  • The report was researched and written by the Independent International Commission of Inquiry on the Occupied Palestinian Territory, which was formed by the Human Right Council in 2021, as an independent investigative body.
    Kevin Shalvey, ABC News, 16 Sep. 2025
Noun
  • Though not related by blood, the two fighters could almost be brothers, and the battle has the tragic dimension of a family feud, as flashbacks reveal how Kaigaku was responsible for their master’s suicide.
    Peter Debruge, Variety, 12 Sep. 2025
  • Given his previous output has continued into the new season under the same manager, Tarkowski seems like the surest bet to take advantage of the game’s new defensive dimension.
    James Nalton, Forbes.com, 11 Sep. 2025
Verb
  • Anything short of that will only deepen inefficiencies, inflate costs and exacerbate environmental harm.
    Lee-Lean Shu, Forbes.com, 11 Sep. 2025
  • Three electric blowers inflate the bellows.
    Matthew Adams, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 11 Sep. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Bulk.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/bulk. Accessed 17 Sep. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on bulk

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!