Definition of swell
(Entry 1 of 3)
1a
: to expand (as in size, volume, or numbers) gradually beyond a normal or original limit
the population swelled
b
: to become distended or puffed up
her ankle is badly swollen
c
: to form a bulge or rounded elevation
2a
: to become filled with pride and arrogance
b
: to behave or speak in a pompous, blustering, or self-important manner
c
: to play the swell
3
: to become distended with emotion
1
: to affect with a powerful or expansive emotion
2
: to increase the size, number, or intensity of
swell the applicant pool
swell
nounDefinition of swell (Entry 2 of 3)
1
: a long often massive and crestless wave or succession of waves often continuing beyond or after its cause (such as a gale)
2a
: the condition of being protuberant
b
: a rounded elevation
3a
: the act or process of swelling
b(1)
: a gradual increase and decrease of the loudness of a musical sound
also
: a sign indicating a swell
(2)
: a device used in an organ for governing loudness
4a
archaic
: an impressive, pompous, or fashionable air or display
b
: a person dressed in the height of fashion
c
: a person of high social position or outstanding competence
swell
adjectiveDefinition of swell (Entry 3 of 3)
Keep scrolling for more
Keep scrolling for more
Keep scrolling for more
Keep scrolling for more
Test Your Vocabulary
February 2021 Words of the Day Quiz
-
- Which is a synonym of perdure?

Test your knowledge - and maybe learn something along the way.
TAKE THE QUIZ
A daily challenge for crossword fanatics.
TAKE THE QUIZLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Words at Play
Ask the Editors
Share swell
Time Traveler for swell
The first known use of swell was before the 12th century
See more words from the same century