swell (B1)

verb

Pronunciation: /swɛl/

Definition

To become larger or rounder in size, or to make something do this.

Examples

• His ankle began to swell after he twisted it.

• The crowd swelled as more people arrived.

• The dough will swell as it rises.

How to Use swell

swell up (phrasal verb)

To become larger or rounder. — "The balloon swelled up with air."

swell with [emotion] (prepositional phrase)

To be filled with a strong emotion. — "He swelled with anger at the injustice."

Synonyms of swell

Words with a similar meaning to swell:

• enlarge
• expand
• inflate
• bulge

Antonyms of swell

Words with the opposite meaning to swell:

• shrink
• contract

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