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

• 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

Studies show postmenopausal women, particularly those with early menopause, may be at higher risk for rheumatoid arthritis, a long-term condition that causes pain, swelling and stiffness in the joints. —Karina Zaiets, USA Today, 30 June 2025

When left alone, these locally aggressive tumors can grow massive, causing pain, swelling and even organ dysfunction. —Alexis Kayser, MSNBC Newsweek, 28 June 2025

Meningitis is a swelling of the protective membranes which cover the brain and spinal cord. —Jamie Barton, CNN Money, 28 June 2025

Swollen fingers or toes: Some people develop severe swelling in an entire finger or toe, giving it a sausage-like appearance. —Mark Gurarie, Health, 27 June 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