bull market

/ˈbʊl ˌmɑːrkɪt/(american) · /ˈbʊl ˌmɑːkɪt/(british)

bull mar-ket · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    [finance]A financial market condition in which prices are rising or are expected to rise, characterized by widespread optimism and investor confidence.

  2. 2.

    [finance]A prolonged period of time during which investment prices rise faster than their historical average, typically defined as a 20% rise from recent lows.

Forms

plural: bull markets

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    ride the bull — Take advantage of rising market conditions.
  • •
    bull run — A sustained period of market gains.
  • •
    raging bull — An extremely strong and aggressive bull market.

Related words

Antonyms: bear market, declining market
See also: bear market, bubble, investor, rally, stock market
Synonyms: rising market, upward trend

Etymology

The term "bull market" originated in the early 18th century, derived from the way a bull attacks by thrusting its horns upward, symbolizing rising prices. The metaphor contrasts with "bear market," where a bear swipes downward with its paws, representing falling prices. The exact origin is uncertain, but the terms became widely used on Wall Street by the 19th century.