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

In September, president of basketball operations Lawrence Frank said Leonard would not play until the swelling in his knee was completely gone. —Law Murray, The Athletic, 27 Dec. 2024

February The night of the shooting, Skye undergoes an emergency craniotomy to relieve the pressure from the swelling in her skull. —Elise Wrabetz, NBC news, 25 Dec. 2024

Research found that oral C. asiatica improved signs and symptoms of venous insufficiency, such as varicose veins, leg heaviness, pain, and swelling (edema). —Amy Brownstein, Ms, Rdn, Verywell Health, 19 Dec. 2024

In his third and final post, Gilford was able to open both his eyes, and the swelling on his face had decreased overall. —Rachel Raposas, People.com, 18 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