swellings
|swel-ling-s|
/ˈswɛlɪŋz/
(swelling)
become larger; raised bump
Etymology
'swell' originates from Old English, specifically the word 'swellan', where the root meant 'to grow, to swell'.
'swell' changed from Old English 'swellan' (and related Proto-Germanic forms) and evolved through Middle English (e.g. 'swellen') into the modern English word 'swell' and its derivative 'swelling'.
Initially, it meant 'to grow or become larger'; over time it retained that core sense and developed noun meanings such as 'a raised area' and figurative uses.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
plural form of 'swelling'.
The report listed several swellings noted during the examination.
Noun 2
localized enlargement of a body part, often caused by injury, infection, or inflammation (a lump or area that is larger than normal).
After the accident she developed several painful swellings on her leg.
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Noun 3
a raised area or hump on a surface (non-medical), such as in wood, ground, or fabric.
The old floor had several small swellings that made walking difficult.
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Last updated: 2026/01/02 13:22