swelling

noun

swell·​ing ˈswe-liŋ How to pronounce swelling (audio)
Synonyms of swellingnext
1
: something that is swollen
specifically : an abnormal bodily protuberance or localized enlargement
2
: the condition of being swollen

Synonyms of swelling

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Examples of swelling in a Sentence

There was a swelling above her eye. The swelling around her eye should subside in a few days.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Per The Athletic’s Matt Barrows, 49ers receiver Ricky Pearsall currently has knee swelling and receiver Christian Kirk injured his calf in the 49ers’ first practice. — Trevor Woods, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2026 The team said all options are being considered for Pearsall’s knee swelling, which could include surgery that could leave him out indefinitely. — Chris Biderman, Sacbee.com, 31 July 2026 The West Australian reported that Barrientos allegedly bit her neck, cheek and breast, causing bruising and swelling. — Lily Ford, HollywoodReporter, 31 July 2026 While still pregnant, Brisa described the swelling in her hands and feet as a result of her emotional state. — Carina Heckert, The Conversation, 30 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for swelling

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of swelling was before the 12th century

Rhymes for swelling

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Browse Nearby Words

swellhead
swelling
swellish
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Cite this Entry

“Swelling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/swelling. Accessed 1 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

swelling

noun
swell·​ing
ˈswel-iŋ
1
: something that is swollen
especially : a swollen part of the body
2
: the condition of being swollen

Medical Definition

swelling

noun
swell·​ing ˈswel-iŋ- How to pronounce swelling (audio)
: an abnormal bodily protuberance or localized enlargement
an inflammatory swelling

More from Merriam-Webster on swelling

Nglish: Translation of swelling for Spanish Speakers

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