as in lump
a small rounded mass of swollen tissue
the swelling at the site of the insect bite was not too concerning
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
as in surging
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
1
as in increasing
to become greater in extent, volume, amount, or number
the club membership has really swelled in recent months
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in accelerating
to make greater in size, amount, or number
more layoffs will swell the ranks of the unemployed to unprecedented levels
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in protruding
to extend outward beyond a usual point
at that point the Congo River swells and forms Malebo Pool
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
show current usage.
Read More
Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of swelling
Ruth Jessen Hickman, Md, Verywell Health, 10 Apr. 2025
For example, about 1 in 5 unvaccinated people with measles will be hospitalized, about 1 out of every 1,000 children who catch it will develop brain swelling that can lead to brain damage.
—Sara Moniuszko, CBS News, 8 Apr. 2025
One analysis of studies on lymphatic drainage massage found that the procedure can help with swelling and recovery from musculoskeletal injuries, reducing pain and improving range of motion in patients.
—Korin Miller, Flow Space, 29 Apr. 2025
Most kids will recover from measles, but infection can lead to dangerous complications such as pneumonia, blindness, brain swelling and death.
—Chicago Tribune, 26 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for swelling
Noun
For example, the swelling in your leg might go from mild to severe, and areas of your skin might harden.
—Ruth Jessen Hickman, Md, Verywell Health, 10 Apr. 2025
For example, about 1 in 5 unvaccinated people with measles will be hospitalized, about 1 out of every 1,000 children who catch it will develop brain swelling that can lead to brain damage.
—Sara Moniuszko, CBS News, 8 Apr. 2025
One analysis of studies on lymphatic drainage massage found that the procedure can help with swelling and recovery from musculoskeletal injuries, reducing pain and improving range of motion in patients.
—Korin Miller, Flow Space, 29 Apr. 2025
Most kids will recover from measles, but infection can lead to dangerous complications such as pneumonia, blindness, brain swelling and death.
—Chicago Tribune, 26 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for swelling
Recent Examples of Synonyms for swelling
Noun
-
Just a few months earlier, in November 2023, her fiancé (then boyfriend) discovered a blueberry-sized lump in her left breast.—
Jordan Greene,
People.com,
15 May 2025
-
Hemorrhoids appear as hard lumps and may cause pain, itching, and bleeding.—
Sarah Hudgens,
Health,
6 May 2025
Verb
-
The team, however, is not increasing season-ticket prices in the upper level, per the spokesperson.—
Alex Zietlow,
Charlotte Observer,
25 Mar. 2025
-
Those in his position often pride themselves on insulation, increasing efficiency or an Ivy League education, a few foundations around which the Houston Astros have constructed their golden era.—
Chandler Rome,
The Athletic,
25 Mar. 2025
Verb
-
With re-accelerating inflation on the horizon, another 5%+ inflation over the next four years could easily see gold at $5,000 an ounce.—
Clem Chambers,
Forbes.com,
13 Apr. 2025
-
These changes disrupt the body's delicate anabolic-catabolic balance, with testosterone promoting tissue growth and libido and cortisol accelerating breakdown and stress responses.—
Ximena Araya-Fischel,
Forbes.com,
12 Apr. 2025
Verb
-
While tending to their garden this fall, homeowners in upstate New York spotted what appeared to be two giant teeth protruding from the soil, partially concealed by plant fronds.—
Leslie Katz,
Forbes,
20 Dec. 2024
-
According to the news release, the mastodon jaw was found protruding from the topsoil, which caught the homeowner's attention.—
Gabe Hauari,
USA TODAY,
18 Dec. 2024
Noun
-
Mom to Myles, now 14, and Rondell Jr., now 17, she was used to bumps and bruises from her active sons.—
Cara Lynn Shultz,
People.com,
15 May 2025
-
The court was shown large photos of the bruises Ventura Fine had on her lower back and thigh, taken not long after the alleged incident.—
Edward Segarra,
USA Today,
14 May 2025
Adjective
-
Tesla has issued 2 recalls for FSD (including the rolling stop) and one for Autopilot.—
Brad Templeton,
Forbes.com,
15 May 2025
-
With its rolling hills, shady live oaks, and thriving equestrian scene, Ocala already has bucolic appeal.—
Skye Sherman,
Southern Living,
14 May 2025
Verb
-
With prices still rising after the Covid-19 pandemic caused inflation to spike, shoppers at high and low income level are flocking to stores providing the best prices on commodities.—
Peter Cohan,
Forbes,
27 Dec. 2024
-
With 2025 fast approaching, the start of a new year offers nonprofit professionals an opportune time to critically assess ongoing and rising trends impacting their communities and constituents.—
Expert Panel®,
Forbes,
27 Dec. 2024
Verb
-
Jackson is also considering expanding her part-time interior decorating business.—
Barbara Bry,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
13 Apr. 2025
-
Wood was recognized for her leadership in creating and expanding the district’s TRACprogram—Teamwork, Regulation, Acceptance, and Community.—
News Release,
San Diego Union-Tribune,
12 Apr. 2025
Cite this Entry
“Swelling.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/swelling. Accessed 22 May. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share