bulky
UK: ˈbʌlki | US: ˈbʌlki
adj. 1. Taking up much space; large and heavy.
adj. 2. Clumsy or unwieldy due to size.
adj. 3. (Of clothing) Loose and voluminous.
bulky = bulk<mass> + y<adjective suffix>
- bulk: From Old Norse bulki ("cargo, heap"), originally referring to a ship’s cargo or a mass of goods. Evolved to mean "large size" in English.
- y: A common English suffix forming adjectives, indicating "characterized by" (e.g., messy, sturdy).
Etymology Origin:
The word bulky emerged in the 16th century, combining bulk (a term borrowed from Norse traders describing cargo) with the adjectival suffix -y. It originally described objects as "massive like cargo," later extending to anything cumbersome or oversized. The logic reflects a physical → metaphorical shift, linking literal heaviness to perceived awkwardness.
The bulky package barely fit through the door.
He avoided bulky sweaters in favor of slim-fit layers.
The old computer monitors were bulky and inefficient.
Despite its bulky appearance, the furniture was easy to assemble.
She struggled to carry the bulky suitcase upstairs.