Langimage
English

billow

|bil/low|

B2

🇺🇸

/ˈbɪloʊ/

🇬🇧

/ˈbɪləʊ/

large undulating mass

Etymology
Etymology Information

'billow' originates from Old Norse, specifically the word 'bylgja', where 'bylgja' meant 'a wave'.

Historical Evolution

'bylgja' changed from Old Norse word 'bylgja' and eventually became the modern English word 'billow'.

Meaning Changes

Initially, it meant 'a wave', but over time it evolved into its current meaning of 'a large undulating mass'.

Meanings by Part of Speech

Noun 1

a large undulating mass of something, typically cloud, smoke, or steam.

The billows of smoke rose from the burning building.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Verb 1

to swell out or puff up, as by the action of wind.

The sails billowed in the strong wind.

Synonyms

Antonyms

Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:45