swelling

noun

swell·​ing ˈswe-liŋ 

1

: something that is swollen

specifically : an abnormal bodily protuberance or localized enlargement

2

: the condition of being swollen

Synonyms

• bump
• knot
• lump
• node
• nodule

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

Stage 2 symptoms are multiple rashes, neck stiffness, muscle weakness in the face, pain starting in the back and spreading to the hips and legs and swelling of the eyes and eyelids. —Marina Johnson, The Courier-Journal, 8 May 2024

After taking time off to let the swelling in his hand reduce, Bennett had been on the ice for three consecutive days of practice before taking Wednesday off. —Jordan McPherson, Miami Herald, 8 May 2024

Word History

First Known Use

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

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- 

: an abnormal bodily protuberance or localized enlargement

an inflammatory swelling