a series of ocean waves that rise and fall without breaking onto the shore, an increase in size, volume, or intensity of something

ground swell, swell with pride, swell up

Formal and Informal Expressions of swells

In different contexts, you can replace 'swells' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'surges, upsurges' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'waves, ups and downs' is a commonplace synonym.

swells: Explore its Definition & Usage

swells Definition

1a series of ocean waves that rise and fall without breaking onto the shore
2an increase in size, volume, or intensity of something

Using swells: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "swells" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

Example
The swells were too big for surfing today.
Example
The swells in the stock market caused a lot of anxiety among investors.
Example
The swells of the orchestra filled the concert hall with music.

swells Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for swells

waves
surges
billows
upsurges

Antonyms for swells

ebbs
recessions

Phrases with swells

ground swell
a gradual increase in public opinion or support for a particular idea or cause
Example
There has been a groundswell of support for environmental protection in recent years.
swell with pride
to feel very proud
Example
Her heart swelled with pride as she watched her daughter graduate from college.
swell up
to become larger or rounder in shape, especially because of an injury or illness
Example
My ankle swelled up after I twisted it playing soccer.

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Summary: swells in Brief

The term 'swells' [swelz] refers to a series of ocean waves that rise and fall without breaking onto the shore. It also means an increase in size, volume, or intensity of something, such as 'The swells in the stock market caused a lot of anxiety among investors.' The phrase 'ground swell' denotes a gradual increase in public opinion or support for a particular idea or cause.