turgid

adjective

tur·​gid ˈtər-jəd 

1

: excessively embellished in style or language : bombastic, pompous

turgid prose

2

: being in a state of distension : swollen, tumid

turgid limbs

especially : exhibiting turgor

turgidity

ˌtər-ˈji-də-tē 

noun

turgidly

ˈtər-jəd-lē 

adverb

turgidness noun

Synonyms of turgid

• swollen

Examples of turgid in a Sentence

turgid leeches having had their fill of blood

Recent Examples on the Web

Despite reaching the final for a second time, the 2024 team served up turgid fare in most of its matches, so much so that frustrated fans threw plastic beer cups at Southgate following a goalless tie against the minnows of Slovenia. — Jon Allsop, New Yorker, 18 June 2026

The document has been commented on more widely than previous popes’ encyclicals, which traditionally have been heavy on turgid liturgical language. — Claudio Lavanga, NBC news, 26 May 2026

This was a turgid, joyless spectacle for both sets of fans, let alone neutrals watching on television. — Beren Cross, New York Times, 21 Mar. 2026

This new singer recited turgid poetry over his new bandmates’ compositions, which erred towards brittle reggae and boogie. — Brad Shoup, Pitchfork, 24 Jan. 2026

Word History

Etymology

Latin turgidus, from turgēre to be swollen

First Known Use

1620, in the meaning defined at sense 2

Kids Definition

turgid

adjective

tur·​gid ˈtər-jəd 

1

: being in a swollen state

2

: exhibiting turgor

a turgid plant cell

Medical Definition

turgid

adjective

tur·​gid ˈtər-jəd 

: being in a normal or abnormal state of distension : swollen, tumid

turgid limbs

turgid living cells