swell
verb
\ ˈswel
\
\
swelled;
swelled
or swollen\ ˈswō-lən
\;
swelling
\;
swelling
Definition of swell
(Entry 1 of 3)
1a
: to expand (as in size, volume, or numbers) gradually beyond a normal or original limit
the population swelled
b
: to become distended or puffed up
her ankle is badly swollen
c
: to form a bulge or rounded elevation
2a
: to become filled with pride and arrogance
b
: to behave or speak in a pompous, blustering, or self-important manner
c
: to play the swell
3
: to become distended with emotion
1
: to affect with a powerful or expansive emotion
2
: to increase the size, number, or intensity of
swell the applicant pool
swell
nounDefinition of swell (Entry 2 of 3)
1
: a long often massive and crestless wave or succession of waves often continuing beyond or after its cause (such as a gale)
2a
: the condition of being protuberant
b
: a rounded elevation
3a
: the act or process of swelling
b(1)
: a gradual increase and decrease of the loudness of a musical sound
also
: a sign indicating a swell
(2)
: a device used in an organ for governing loudness
4a
archaic
: an impressive, pompous, or fashionable air or display
b
: a person dressed in the height of fashion
c
: a person of high social position or outstanding competence
swell
adjectiveDefinition of swell (Entry 3 of 3)
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