billow

UK: ˈbɪləʊ | US: ˈbɪloʊ

Definition

  1. n. a large wave or surge of water, smoke, or sound

  2. vi. to swell or roll in waves

Structure
bill <swelling>ow <verb/noun suffix>
Etymology

billow = bill<swelling> + ow<verb/noun suffix>

  • bill<swelling>: From Old Norse bylgja (wave), related to belgja (to swell).
  • ow<verb/noun suffix>: A common English suffix forming nouns/verbs (e.g., "shadow," "follow").

Etymology Origin:
"Billow" traces back to Old Norse bylgja, meaning "wave," reflecting the natural motion of swelling water. The suffix "-ow" was added in Middle English, likely influenced by similar-sounding words describing motion or form (e.g., "hollow"). The word vividly captures the imagery of rolling waves or expanding smoke.

Examples

  1. The ship rose on a massive billow of water.

  2. Smoke billowed from the factory chimneys.

  3. Her dress billowed in the wind as she ran.

  4. The orchestra’s music billowed through the hall.

  5. Dark clouds billowed ominously before the storm.