Synonyms for

Swell

Verb / swel / Another word for swell — explore alternatives below. For syllable breakdowns and pronunciation, see this word on Syllablesworld.

Definition

to increase in size or volume, especially in a gradual way

Synonyms & similar words

swellup well cracking nifty tumefy corking crestlesswave fashionplate dandy bangup groovy beau sheik tumesce bully great gallant notbad clotheshorse peachy keen slapup puffup smashing fop expand grow increase inflate enlarge bloat bulge distend rise surge balloon intumesce tumefy tumesce turgid upswell wax

Synonyms by register

Formal

enlarge expand increase augment

Informal

awesome cool great wicked boss

Literary

billow surge wax

Antonyms

shrink decrease diminish contract deflate reduce

Common collocations

  • swell up
  • swell with pride
  • swell to twice its size
  • swell out
  • swell the ranks
  • swell the numbers
  • swell the chorus

Word family

noun swelling
verb swell
adjective swollen

Usage note

As an adjective, 'swell' is dated slang for 'excellent' or 'very good'. Its primary meanings relate to expansion or increase in size or volume.

Example sentences

  1. The river swelled after the heavy rain.
  2. My ankle swelled up after I sprained it.
  3. As the music played, my heart began to swell with happiness.
  4. The flower in the garden swelled to twice its size.
  5. The population of the city has swelled in recent years.

Quotes

  • A rising tide lifts all boats, but it also swells all rivers.
  • Gratitude swells the heart and makes us feel good.
  • The ocean is a mighty harmonist. It takes the turbulence of the world and swells it into music.

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