bulldog
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: /ˈbʊl.dɒg/
KK: /ˈbʊlˌdɔg/
adjective
Definition
Having a stubborn or tenacious quality, similar to that of a bulldog.
Example
Her bulldog attitude helped her succeed in the competitive environment.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: more bulldog
Superlative: most bulldog
Conversation
I think my dog has a really bulldog personality.
Oh really? Is he stubborn like a bulldog?
Exactly! He refuses to listen sometimes.
That's hilarious! Dogs really can be so bulldog in their ways.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
tenacious
determined
obstinate
Antonyms
yielding
flexible
submissive
noun
Definition
A type of dog that is short-haired, has a large head and strong jaws, and is known for its stocky body. This breed was originally bred for bullbaiting.
Example
The bulldog is known for its friendly and courageous nature.
Conversation
Have you seen that new puppy in the neighborhood?
Yeah, it’s a cute little bulldog!
I heard they can be really friendly and playful.
transitive verb
Definition
To throw a calf or steer by grabbing its horns and twisting its neck until it falls down.
Example
The cowboy bulldogged the calf during the rodeo competition.
Tense Forms
Past: bulldogged
Past Participle: bulldogged
Conversation
Did you see how he managed to bulldog that calf at the rodeo last weekend?
Yeah, that was impressive! I couldn't believe how quickly he did it.
I know, right? It takes a lot of skill to bulldog like that.
Root Explanation
Bulldog → The word is formed from "bull" (from Old English *bula*, meaning a male bovine) and "dog" (from Old English *docga*, meaning a powerful breed of dog). The term "bulldog" refers to a breed of dog that was originally used for bull-baiting, hence the combination of these two elements.
Memory Tip
Think of a strong male bovine ('bull') and a powerful breed of dog ('dog') — together they create the image of a bulldog, a breed known for its strength and tenacity.
Visually Confused Words
No commonly confused words.