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 of swelling

• lump
• bruise
• bump
• nodule
• node

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

Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs NSAIDs are both prescription and OTC drugs that help treat fever, pain, and inflammation (swelling). — Karen Berger, Verywell Health, 14 Aug. 2026

Susac, whose season is likely over, is currently using crutches while wearing a large black brace on his knee while the swelling goes down. — Justice Delos Santos, Mercury News, 12 Aug. 2026

Bibby was given antibiotics, antihistamines and advised to get the fake lashes removed after the swelling subsided. — Raven Brunner, PEOPLE, 12 Aug. 2026

The arnica in this gel can help treat sore muscles, aches, swelling, or other pains that are bothering you, too. — Jasmine Gomez, Travel + Leisure, 11 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

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

Rhymes for swelling

• belling
• celling
• dwelling
• fehling
• felling
• gelling
• pelling
• quelling
• selling
• shelling
• smelling
• spelling

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