Bubble

Definition

Bubble is a noun and a verb. As a noun, it refers to a small spherical pocket of gas within a liquid, or a metaphorical term for a temporary economic upturn. As a verb, it means to form bubbles or to produce a bubbling sound.

Parts of Speech

• Noun
• Verb

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbʌbəl/
• Respelling: BUB-uhl

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbʌbəl/
• Respelling: BUB-uhl

Etymology

The word "bubble" likely originates from Middle Dutch "bobbel," meaning "a small blister or blob." First recorded in English in the late 14th century, it described a small pocket of air in a liquid, later expanding to describe economic or speculative phenomena.

Derivatives

• Bubblegum (noun)
• Bubbling (verb/adjective)
• Bubble-like (adjective)
• Bubble wrap (noun)
• Bubble bath (noun)

Synonyms

• Blister
• Foam
• Pocket

Antonyms

• Solid
• Flatness
• Density

Usage

The term "bubble" is commonly used in both literal and metaphorical contexts. For example, "The soap created many small bubbles," or "The tech industry experienced a market bubble that eventually burst."

Related Terms

• Froth: Small bubbles in a liquid, often produced by agitation.
• Effervescence: The process of bubbling as gas escapes from a liquid.
• Blister: A raised area on a surface containing air or liquid.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A small spherical pocket of gas in a liquid: Refers to the physical formation of a bubble within a liquid.
  • Example: "Children love to blow bubbles with soap."
• An economic situation of rapid, unsustainable growth: Used to describe a period of rapid market expansion followed by a sharp decline.
  • Example: "The housing bubble led to a major economic crisis."

Verb

• To form or produce bubbles: Describes the process of bubbles appearing in a liquid.
  • Example: "The water began to bubble as it boiled."
• To make a gurgling sound: Refers to the sound produced by bubbles in a liquid.
  • Example: "A gentle stream bubbled nearby."