v.
(swells, swelling, swelled; past part. swollen or swelled)
- become larger or rounder in size, especially as a result of an accumulation of fluid.
- become or make greater in intensity, amount, or volume.
n.
- a full or gently rounded form.
- a gradual increase in sound, amount, or intensity.
▸a welling up of a feeling.
- a slow, regular movement of the sea in rolling waves that do not break.
- a mechanism for producing a crescendo or diminuendo in an organ or harmonium.
- informal, dated a fashionable or stylish person of wealth or high social position.
adj.
N. Amer. informal, dated - excellent; very good.
- archaic smart; fashionable.
adv.
N. Amer. informal, dated excellently; very well.
Phrase
- one's head swells
one becomes conceited.
Etymology
OE swellan, of Gmc origin.