'bully' originates from Middle Dutch, specifically the word 'boele,' where 'boele' meant 'lover' or 'brother.'

'boele' transformed into the English word 'bully,' initially meaning 'sweetheart' or 'fine fellow,' and eventually became the modern English word 'bully' with a negative connotation.

Initially, it meant 'sweetheart' or 'fine fellow,' but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a person who habitually seeks to harm or intimidate those whom they perceive as vulnerable.'