hulk
UK: hʌlk | US: hʌlk
n. a large, heavy, or clumsy object or person
n. the remains of a ship or other structure, especially one that is abandoned or wrecked
n. (informal) a person of great size or strength
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The word "hulk" traces back to Old English hulc, meaning "ship" or "hollow vessel," likely derived from Proto-Germanic hulkaz ("hollow"). Over time, it evolved to emphasize size and heaviness, shifting from ships to bulky objects or people. The modern sense of "wrecked ship" emerged in the 17th century, while the informal usage for a large person (influenced by comic-book character "The Hulk") solidified in the 20th century.
The old hulk of a cargo ship rusted in the harbor.
He moved like a hulk, knocking over chairs in the small room.
The abandoned factory stood as a grim hulk against the skyline.
She described her brother as a gentle hulk despite his intimidating size.
The comic-book Hulk smashes through walls with ease.