Bullied
/ˈbʊliːd/
Definitions
To intimidate or harass (someone), typically by using violence, threats, or other forms of aggression.
/ˈbʊliːd/
To treat someone cruelly or aggressively, often repeatedly.
The children were bullied by older kids.
💡 Simply: To be mean and aggressive to someone repeatedly.
More Examples
She felt bullied into signing the contract.
How It's Used
"He was bullied relentlessly throughout primary school."
"She felt bullied into accepting the extra work."
Idioms & expressions
to be bullied around
To be treated unfairly or aggressively by someone in a position of power.
"He's been bullied around by his boss for years."
From bully + -ed (past participle suffix). The word "bully" itself originates from the Dutch word "boel" meaning "lover, sweetheart", with a shift in meaning over time to "lover's quarrel" and finally to its current sense of intimidation.
The word's negative connotation has solidified over time; earlier usage hinted at more playful antagonism.
Memory tip
Imagine a big BULL yelling at a smaller person.