Swell

Noun

Definition: A slow, regular movement of the sea in rolling waves that do not break.

Definition: A gradual increase or rise in something.

Synonyms: Surge, Rise, Increase

Antonyms: Decrease, Decline, Decrease

Examples:
  • The swell of the ocean lulled her to sleep.
  • There was a swell of support for the new policy.
Mnemonics:
  • "Swell" sounds like "waves swell on the shore."
  • Picture a graph with a rising line representing a swelling trend.

Verb

Definition: (of a part of the body) become larger or rounder in size, typically as a result of an accumulation of fluid.

Definition: Increase in size or volume, typically due to an accumulation of something.

Definition: Puff up or become larger as if to burst.

Synonyms: Enlarge, Expand, Grow

Antonyms: Shrink, Decrease, Reduce

Examples:
  • Her ankle started to swell after she sprained it.
  • The balloon began to swell with air.
Mnemonics:
  • Imagine a swollen ankle after an injury.
  • Think of a balloon gradually getting bigger and swelling.

Etymology:

Origin:

Old English 'swellan', of Germanic origin; related to Old Norse 'svelgr' (gullet), Latin 'laevus' (left), and Greek 'elakara' (swell).

Historical Usage:

The word "swell" has been in use since the Old English period, evolving from its Germanic origins.

Related Idioms:

Idiom:

"Swell one's head"

Explanation:

To become conceited or full of oneself.

Misconceptions:

Misconception:

Confusing "swell" (noun) with "swell" (verb).

Explanation:

"Swell" can be both a noun and a verb with different meanings and uses.

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