bulletproof
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈbʊlɪtpruːf/
KK: /ˈbʊlɪtpruf/
adjective
Definition
Something that cannot be penetrated by bullets or is very strong and resistant to damage or failure.
Example
The new car model has a bulletproof design to ensure safety for its passengers.
Conversation
Did you hear about that new jacket that’s bulletproof?
No way! Is it really safe to wear?
Yeah, they say it can protect you from more than just bullets.
That sounds amazing! I need to get one for sure.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
impenetrable
invulnerable
secure
Antonyms
vulnerable
exposed
weak
transitive verb
Definition
To make something unable to be penetrated by bullets, ensuring it is protected from gunfire.
Example
The company developed a new material that can bulletproof vehicles effectively.
Tense Forms
Past: bulletproofed
Past Participle: bulletproofed
Conversation
Did you hear about that new jacket that’s bulletproof?
Yeah, I saw an ad for it online!
I wonder how they actually bulletproof the fabric.
Root Explanation
Bulletproof → It is formed from "bullet" (from Middle French *boulette*, meaning a small ball) and "proof" (from Old English *prōf*, meaning test or trial). The word "bulletproof" means resistant to being penetrated by bullets, as if tested against them.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'small ball' ('bullet') that is 'tested' ('proof') to resist penetration — that's why bulletproof means resistant to bullets.
Visually Confused Words
ballproof