Definition

Proper noun 1. A personification of England or the typical Englishman: "John Bull" is a national personification of England or the United Kingdom, often depicted as a stout, honest, plain-dealing country gentleman. 2. A man of English descent: Used to refer to an Englishman, especially one considered to be typically English in character.

Usage Examples

• Proper noun:
  • In political cartoons, John Bull is often shown wearing a Union Jack waistcoat.
  • He was a true John Bull, with his love for tradition and a good cup of tea.

Advanced Usage

• "The spirit of John Bull": Refers to the perceived national character of England, such as robustness, independence, and pragmatism.
  • The policy was defended with the traditional spirit of John Bull.

Variants and Related Words

• John Bullism (noun): The characteristics or attitudes attributed to John Bull; English patriotism or nationalism.
  • His speech was full of old-fashioned John Bullism.

Synonyms

• Briton: A native or inhabitant of Great Britain.
• Englishman: A man born in England or of English descent.

Related Idioms

• "John Bull's other island": A phrase sometimes used to refer to Ireland, particularly in a historical or political context.
  • The play dealt with the complex relationship between England and John Bull's other island.

Noun

1. a man of English descent