swell
|swell|
B2
/swɛl/
increase in size or intensity
Etymology
Etymology Information
'swell' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'swellan,' where 'swel-' meant 'to grow or increase.'
Historical Evolution
'swellan' transformed into the Middle English word 'swellen,' and eventually became the modern English word 'swell.'
Meaning Changes
Initially, it meant 'to grow or increase in size,' and this meaning has largely remained the same in modern usage.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a gradual increase in size, volume, or intensity.
The swell of the crowd was noticeable.
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Antonyms
Verb 1
to become larger or rounder in size, typically as a result of an accumulation of fluid.
Her ankle began to swell after the injury.
Synonyms
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Idioms
Last updated: 2025/01/11 11:35