Bullet

Definition

Bullet is a noun. It refers to a small, metal projectile fired from a gun or rifle. Additionally, it can refer to a symbol (•) used in lists to mark items.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbʊlɪt/
• Respelling: BUL-it

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈbʊlɪt/
• Respelling: BUL-it

The pronunciation of "bullet" is the same in both American and British English.

Etymology

The word "bullet" originates from the French word "boulette," meaning "small ball," derived from "boule," meaning "ball." It entered English in the early 16th century, referring to a round projectile fired from a firearm.

Derivatives

• Bulletproof (adjective)
• Bulletin (noun)
• Bulleted (adjective)
• Bulletinize (verb)
• Bullethead (noun, informal)

Synonyms

• Projectile
• Slug
• Round

Antonyms

• None

Usage

The term "bullet" is primarily used in firearms contexts, as in "The soldier loaded a bullet into the rifle." It is also used in text formatting, where "bullets" indicate listed items, such as in "bullet points."

Related Terms

• Cartridge: A unit of ammunition that includes the bullet, casing, powder, and primer.
• Shell: A hollow projectile containing explosive or incendiary materials.
• Ammunition: The materials fired from a weapon, including bullets.

Detailed Definitions

Noun

• A small metal projectile fired from a firearm: Typically cylindrical in shape, designed to be shot from guns or rifles.
  • Example: "The hunter carried extra bullets for his rifle."
• A symbol (•) used to denote items in a list: Commonly used in text formatting to indicate list points.
  • Example: "She organized her tasks with bullet points."