How Do You Spell BULLBEGGARS?

Pronunciation: [bˈʊlbɛɡəz] (IPA)

The spelling of the word 'bullbeggars' might seem odd at first glance, but its origin sheds some light on its structure. This term, which refers to someone who bullies or intimidates others, comes from the Old English phrase 'bullebak' meaning a big talker. The pronunciation of 'bullebak' would have sounded like 'bʊləbak' with a long 'u' sound. Over time, the spelling changed, and the 'a' turned into 'e' to reflect the modern pronunciation of 'bullebeggars,' or 'bʊlbɛɪgərs.'