bully

How to Split "bully" into Syllables

The word bully is divided into 2 syllables: bul·ly. Understanding this syllable division is essential for correct pronunciation and spelling.

📝 Syllable Breakdown

• bul — 1st syllable
• ly — 2nd syllable

🔊 Pronunciation Guide

The phonetic transcription of bully:

• IPA: /ˈbʊli/

📖 Definitions

1. bully (countable and uncountable, plural bullies)
2. A person who is intentionally physically or emotionally cruel to others, especially to those whom they perceive as being vulnerable or of less power or privilege. [from late 17th c.]

📚 Word Origin & History

From 1530, as a term of endearment, probably a diminutive ( +‎ -y) of Dutch boel (“lover; brother”), from Middle Dutch boel, boele (“brother; lover”), from Old Dutch *buolo, from Proto-Germanic *bōlô (compare Middle Low German bôle (“brother”), Middle High German buole (“brother; close relative; close relation”) (whence German Buhle (“lover”)), Old English Bōla, Bōlla (personal name), diminutive of expressive *bō- (“brother, father”). Compare also Latvian bālinš...

✓ Why Learn Syllable Division?

Understanding how to break down bully into syllables helps with:

• Correct pronunciation — Knowing syllable structure ensures accurate speech
• Improved spelling — Breaking words into chunks makes them easier to remember and write
• Reading fluency — Recognizing syllable patterns speeds up reading comprehension
• Poetry and lyrics — Syllable counting is essential for meter and rhythm
• Language learning — Non-native speakers benefit from syllable awareness

📊 Similar Words Comparison

Compare bully with related words to understand syllable patterns:

Word	Syllables	Division
bully	2	bul·ly
bible	2	b-ible
Bellow	2	bel-low
bowel	2	bo-wel
biol	1	biol

🔗 Related Words

Explore syllable divisions of words related to bully:

bulb, bulk, bull, bulge, bulgy, bulky, Bulgar, bullet.