# Bristol

/ˈbɹɪstəɫ/ (US)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bristol
Updated: 2026-08-15

## Senses

### 1. city in England

noun · CEFR B1

a large city and port in the southwest of England.

For teachers: a city, ceremonial county, and unitary authority in South West England, historically significant as a major port.

- We spent the weekend exploring the historic docks in Bristol.
- Bristol has transformed from a traditional maritime hub into a vibrant centre for the creative and aerospace industries.

### 2. thick paper

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a type of strong, smooth, thick paper used for drawing or printing.

For teachers: a heavy-weight, high-quality paperboard with a smooth finish, commonly used for technical drawings and business cards.

- The artist chose a sheet of white Bristol for her ink drawing.
- The specifications required the brochures to be printed on three-ply Bristol to ensure durability during transit.

### 3. breasts

noun · CEFR C2 · British English · Slang · Informal

a slang word for a woman's breasts.

For teachers: a slang term for breasts, derived from Cockney rhyming slang 'Bristol City'.

- He made a rude joke about her Bristols and she walked away.
- The tabloid was criticised for its frequent use of dated slang like 'Bristols' when referring to female celebrities.

Usage: Usually used in the plural form 'Bristols'.

Teaching tip: This is Cockney rhyming slang (Bristol City = titty); it is informal and can be considered vulgar or objectifying.

## Examples

- He made a rude comment about her Bristols.
- The tabloid used a crude pun about Bristols in its headline to grab attention.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.