1
: something that is swollen
specifically
: an abnormal bodily protuberance or localized enlargement
2
: the condition of being swollen
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
One of the most painful complications of mumps is orchitis, or swelling of the testicles, which can harm fertility.
—
Tanya Lewis, Scientific American, 6 Mar. 2026
Warm or cold compresses may help ease gland swelling.
—Katia Hetter, CNN Money, 5 Mar. 2026
Also carries risks of extreme swelling, bruising, necrosis and ulceration or at the injection site.
—Cindy Krischer Goodman, Sun Sentinel, 5 Mar. 2026
There's no way to prevent them, but elevating your legs and avoiding prolonged standing can help decrease pain and swelling.
—Erin Meanley, Parents, 5 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for swelling
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Tanya Lewis, Scientific American, 6 Mar. 2026
Warm or cold compresses may help ease gland swelling.
—Katia Hetter, CNN Money, 5 Mar. 2026
Also carries risks of extreme swelling, bruising, necrosis and ulceration or at the injection site.
—Cindy Krischer Goodman, Sun Sentinel, 5 Mar. 2026
There's no way to prevent them, but elevating your legs and avoiding prolonged standing can help decrease pain and swelling.
—Erin Meanley, Parents, 5 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for swelling
Cite this Entry
“Swelling.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/swelling. Accessed 13 Mar. 2026.
Copy CitationMedical Definition
swelling
noun
swell·ing
ˈswel-iŋ- 
: an abnormal bodily protuberance or localized enlargement
an inflammatory swelling
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