What does bulldozing mean?
Bulldozing refers to the act of operating a bulldozer, typically to clear or move earth, rubble, or other materials. The term can be used literally to describe construction or excavation work, or figuratively to describe dominating or coercive behavior, such as bulldozing through opposition or bulldozing someone into agreeing. The word is often associated with forceful or aggressive action, and can have a range of connotations depending on the context. In general, bulldozing implies a sense of power or control, and can be used to describe both physical and metaphorical forms of domination. The term is commonly used in a variety of contexts, including construction, politics, and social interactions.
To operate a bulldozer, especially to clear or move earth, rubble, or other materials.
"The construction team spent all day bulldozing the site to prepare it for building."
The act of using a bulldozer to move or clear land.
"Bulldozing is a crucial step in the construction process."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of bulldozing
The term bulldozing originated in the late 19th century, derived from the noun bulldozer, which referred to a type of heavy equipment used for clearing and grading land. The word bulldozer is likely a combination of bull, possibly derived from the animal's strength and tenacity, and dozer, a colloquial term for a machine that dozies or pushes earth. Over time, the verb bulldozing emerged to describe the act of operating a bulldozer, and has since taken on figurative meanings related to dominating or coercive behavior.
Usage notes
Bulldozing can be used literally to describe the operation of a bulldozer, or figuratively to describe dominating or coercive behavior.