Formal and Informal Expressions of swell

In different contexts, you can replace 'swell' with suitable alternatives. In a more formal setting, 'increase, enlarge' is apt. In informal speech or writing, 'blow up, puff up' is a commonplace synonym.

swell: Explore its Definition & Usage

swell Definition

1to become larger and rounder than usual; to increase in size or volume
2to feel or express pride or satisfaction
3to be filled with a particular emotion or quality

Using swell: Examples

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

Example
The injured area swelled up and turned red.
Example
The crowd swelled as the concert began.
Example
He swelled with pride when he received the award.
Example
Her heart swelled with joy at the sight of her newborn baby.
Example
The sails swelled with the wind.

swell Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for swell

Antonyms for swell

Idioms Using swell

swell one's head
to make someone arrogant or conceited
Example
Don't let all this praise swell your head.
swell the coffers
to increase the amount of money that an organization has
Example
The charity event helped to swell the coffers of the organization.
swell the chorus
to join in singing with a group of people
Example
The audience swelled the chorus during the performance.

Phrases with swell

swell up
to become larger and rounder than usual, especially because of an injury or infection
Example
My ankle swelled up after I twisted it.
swell with pride
to feel very proud
Example
He swelled with pride when he saw his son graduate.
swell the ranks
to increase the number of people in a group
Example
The company is looking to swell the ranks of its employees.

Origins of swell

from Old English 'swellan', meaning 'to grow or become swollen'

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Summary: swell in Brief

The verb 'swell' [swel] means to increase in size or volume, to feel or express pride or satisfaction, or to be filled with a particular emotion or quality. It can describe physical changes like swelling up from an injury, or emotional changes like swelling with pride. The phrase 'swell up' refers to physical swelling, while 'swell the ranks' refers to increasing the number of people in a group. Idioms include 'swell one's head,' meaning to make someone arrogant, and 'swell the coffers,' meaning to increase an organization's funds.