bullfrog: meaning, definition, pronunciation and examples
C1informal, technical (zoology)
Quick answer
What does “bullfrog” mean?
A large, heavy-bodied frog (especially of the genus Lithobates or Rana) with a deep, loud call, typically living in or near permanent bodies of water.
Audio
Pronunciation
Definition
Meaning and Definition
A large, heavy-bodied frog (especially of the genus Lithobates or Rana) with a deep, loud call, typically living in or near permanent bodies of water.
Sometimes used metaphorically for something large, loud, or aggressive in a clumsy way.
Dialectal Variation
British vs American Usage
Differences
The term is used in both varieties. The American bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus) is a specific, widespread species. In the UK, 'bullfrog' is a general term for large frogs, often non-native species.
Connotations
Similar in both varieties: associated with croaking sounds, ponds, and swampy environments.
Frequency
More frequent in American English due to the native presence and cultural familiarity with the American bullfrog.
Grammar
How to Use “bullfrog” in a Sentence
The [ADJ] bullfrog [VERB].Vocabulary
Collocations
Examples
Examples of “bullfrog” in a Sentence
verb
American English
- The invasive species began to bullfrog its way across the wetland. (rare, non-standard)
adjective
British English
- He let out a bullfrog croak of surprise.
American English
- She impersonated a bullfrog voice perfectly.
Usage
Meaning in Context
Business
Virtually none.
Academic
Used in biology/zoology texts discussing amphibian species, ecology, or invasive species.
Everyday
Used when describing wildlife near a lake or pond, or imitating its distinctive call.
Technical
Used in herpetology for species identification (e.g., Lithobates catesbeianus).
Watch out
Common Mistakes When Using “bullfrog”
- Confusing 'bullfrog' with 'toad' (toads have drier, wartier skin).
- Using 'bullfrog' for any small frog.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
No. While both are amphibians, bullfrogs are true frogs (smooth, moist skin, long legs for jumping, closely tied to water). Toads typically have drier, bumpy skin and shorter legs.
The name references its large size and the deep, loud call of the male, which is reminiscent of a bull's bellow.
Yes, bullfrog legs are considered a delicacy in some cuisines, particularly in the Southern United States and parts of Asia.
Not to humans. They are not venomous or aggressive toward people. However, as invasive predators, they can be dangerous to smaller native wildlife.
A large, heavy-bodied frog (especially of the genus Lithobates or Rana) with a deep, loud call, typically living in or near permanent bodies of water.
Bullfrog is usually informal, technical (zoology) in register.
Bullfrog: in British English it is pronounced /ˈbʊlfrɒɡ/, and in American English it is pronounced /ˈbʊlfrɔːɡ/. Tap the audio buttons above to hear it.
Phrases
Idioms & Phrases
- “Have a frog in one's throat (related, but not specific to bullfrog)”
Learning
Memory Aids
Mnemonic
Think of a BULL (big and loud) that is a FROG. A bullfrog is a big, loud frog.
Conceptual Metaphor
LOUDNESS IS SIZE / AGGRESSION IS ANIMAL BEHAVIOR (e.g., 'He had a bullfrog voice.')
Practice
Quiz
What is a key identifying feature of a bullfrog compared to many other frogs?