swelling

noun

swell·​ing ˈswe-liŋ 

1

: something that is swollen

specifically : an abnormal bodily protuberance or localized enlargement

2

: the condition of being swollen

Synonyms

• bump
• knot
• lump
• node
• nodule

Examples of swelling in a Sentence

There was a swelling above her eye.

The swelling around her eye should subside in a few days.

Recent Examples on the Web

One of the common culprits behind puffiness (as distinct from facial swelling, which can be indicative of more serious issues), is dehydration or water retention, which explains why an evening of alcohol can impact how your face looks the next morning. —Hannah Coates, Vogue, 7 Jan. 2025

There were no broken bones, either, so aside from a few scratch marks and swelling of his upper lip, Self survived the incident without stitches. —Gary Bedore, Kansas City Star, 3 Jan. 2025

While many salivary duct stones can pass without treatment, symptoms of swelling and painful eating persist until the stone is removed. —Anna Giorgi, Verywell Health, 27 Dec. 2024

This swelling and irritation can be caused by a number of things, but viruses and bacteria are the most common. —Daryl Austin, USA TODAY, 26 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

swelling

noun

swell·​ing

ˈswel-iŋ

1

: something that is swollen

especially : a swollen part of the body

2

: the condition of being swollen

Medical Definition

swelling

noun

swell·​ing ˈswel-iŋ- 

: an abnormal bodily protuberance or localized enlargement

an inflammatory swelling