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

One case cited an upcharge for a facial filler procedure the client didn't initially request; and after the treatment, negative results presented, such as major swelling and fluid pooling beneath their eyes. —Skyler Caruso, PEOPLE, 31 Dec. 2025

Smith called the office at least twice in subsequent days to report pain and swelling, but a staffer told her that was normal, according to the suit. —Jason Kane, NBC news, 31 Dec. 2025

Steam mops are generally not recommended for hardwood floors, as the heat and moisture can penetrate the wood and cause warping, swelling, or other damage. —Emily Benda Gaylord, The Spruce, 30 Dec. 2025

Risks Non-breathable or tight covers trap condensation, causing warping, swelling, or mildew. —Colleen Sullivan, Better Homes & Gardens, 29 Dec. 2025

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