bullwhip

noun

bull·​whip ˈbu̇l-ˌ(h)wip How to pronounce bullwhip (audio)
also ˈbəl-
Synonyms of bullwhipnext
: a rawhide whip with a very long plaited lash

Examples of bullwhip in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The chunky cotton rope in my hands pulls taught and slingshots me through the apex of the turn like the end of a bullwhip. — Colin Clancy, Condé Nast Traveler, 25 Feb. 2022 Arcs of electricity bolted from it, blue bullwhips that flashed out from it and left thunder in their wake. — Randall Colburn, Entertainment Weekly, 23 Nov. 2025 But don’t expect the massive bullwhip effect of cargo that is occurring out at sea. — Glenn Taylor, Sourcing Journal, 3 Sep. 2019 The bullwhip effect occurs when minor changes in customer demand cause large, chaotic fluctuations in orders further upstream and lead to excess inventory. — Steve Banker, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for bullwhip

Word History

First Known Use

1852, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of bullwhip was in 1852

Rhymes for bullwhip

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Browse Nearby Words

bull wheel
bullwhip
bullwork
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Cite this Entry

“Bullwhip.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bullwhip. Accessed 8 Jul. 2026.

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