as in lump
a small rounded mass of swollen tissue
the swelling at the site of the insect bite was not too concerning
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
1
as in increasing
to become greater in extent, volume, amount, or number
the club membership has really swelled in recent months
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in accelerating
to make greater in size, amount, or number
more layoffs will swell the ranks of the unemployed to unprecedented levels
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in protruding
to extend outward beyond a usual point
at that point the Congo River swells and forms Malebo Pool
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
as in surging
Related Words
Dissimilar Words
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
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Recent Examples of swelling
Jade Jackson, IndyStar, 2 July 2025
Most importantly, watch for signs or symptoms of more serious allergic responses that can lead to anaphylaxis, such as severe swelling, hives away from the sting site, difficulty in breathing, mental confusion and low blood pressure.
—Gabrielle Chenault, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025
The swelling looks like a tiny volcano rising up from the curve of his skull.
—Matt Zoller Seitz, Vulture, 30 June 2025
The swelling from the bite only lasted about three days.
—Alice Gibbs, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for swelling
Verb
Detectives described bruises all over Gray's body, face, and neck along with severe swelling to her face and eyes, which were blackened.
—Jade Jackson, IndyStar, 2 July 2025
Most importantly, watch for signs or symptoms of more serious allergic responses that can lead to anaphylaxis, such as severe swelling, hives away from the sting site, difficulty in breathing, mental confusion and low blood pressure.
—Gabrielle Chenault, The Tennessean, 2 July 2025
The swelling looks like a tiny volcano rising up from the curve of his skull.
—Matt Zoller Seitz, Vulture, 30 June 2025
The swelling from the bite only lasted about three days.
—Alice Gibbs, MSNBC Newsweek, 27 June 2025
See All Example Sentences for swelling
Recent Examples of Synonyms for swelling
Noun
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The 43-year-old initially felt an olive-sized lump in her breast while pregnant, forcing an early labor and a mastectomy just six days after giving birth to Lily, now 11.—
Lucy Notarantonio,
MSNBC Newsweek,
26 July 2025
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Between the freshness of the lump crab and its vegetal crunch, the orzo had all the makings of a great summer pasta salad, if on the mild-mannered side.—
Hannah Edgar,
Chicago Tribune,
26 July 2025
Verb
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The team, however, is not increasing season-ticket prices in the upper level, per the spokesperson.—
Alex Zietlow,
Charlotte Observer,
25 Mar. 2025
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Those in his position often pride themselves on insulation, increasing efficiency or an Ivy League education, a few foundations around which the Houston Astros have constructed their golden era.—
Chandler Rome,
The Athletic,
25 Mar. 2025
Verb
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With re-accelerating inflation on the horizon, another 5%+ inflation over the next four years could easily see gold at $5,000 an ounce.—
Clem Chambers,
Forbes.com,
13 Apr. 2025
-
These changes disrupt the body's delicate anabolic-catabolic balance, with testosterone promoting tissue growth and libido and cortisol accelerating breakdown and stress responses.—
Ximena Araya-Fischel,
Forbes.com,
12 Apr. 2025
Verb
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While tending to their garden this fall, homeowners in upstate New York spotted what appeared to be two giant teeth protruding from the soil, partially concealed by plant fronds.—
Leslie Katz,
Forbes,
20 Dec. 2024
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According to the news release, the mastodon jaw was found protruding from the topsoil, which caught the homeowner's attention.—
Gabe Hauari,
USA TODAY,
18 Dec. 2024
Noun
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Just bruises that faded — purple legs, arms, and scratches on my back.—
Jesus Mesa,
MSNBC Newsweek,
25 July 2025
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Firmness: Avoid melons that have bruises or soft spots.—
Katie Rosenhouse,
Southern Living,
14 July 2025
Verb
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With 2025 fast approaching, the start of a new year offers nonprofit professionals an opportune time to critically assess ongoing and rising trends impacting their communities and constituents.—
Expert Panel®,
Forbes,
27 Dec. 2024
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Operators will have to pay $900 per ton of emissions, rising to $1,500 per ton in a few years.—
Christopher Helman,
Forbes,
27 Dec. 2024
Verb
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Jackson is also considering expanding her part-time interior decorating business.—
Barbara Bry,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
13 Apr. 2025
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Wood was recognized for her leadership in creating and expanding the district’s TRACprogram—Teamwork, Regulation, Acceptance, and Community.—
News Release,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
12 Apr. 2025
Verb
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On Wednesday, March 19, the couple filmed an Instagram Reel poking fun at their recent red carpet interview with Extra at the grand re-opening of Planet Hollywood in NYC on Tuesday, March 11.—
Charna Flam,
People.com,
20 Mar. 2025
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Roots Growing Out Drainage Holes Roots poking out of the drainage holes at the bottom of the pot is a sure sign your plant needs a bigger pot.—
Leanne Potts,
Better Homes & Gardens,
24 Mar. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Swelling.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/swelling. Accessed 4 Aug. 2025.
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