billowy
UK: ˈbɪləʊi | US: ˈbɪloʊi
adj. resembling or characterized by large waves or swelling masses, especially of clouds or fabric
adj. undulating or surging in a manner suggestive of waves
The word "billowy" derives from "billow," which originated from Old Norse bylgja (meaning "a wave"), combined with the English adjectival suffix "-y." The root "billow" evokes the image of rolling or swelling waves, later extended metaphorically to describe anything with a similar undulating or voluminous appearance, such as clouds or flowing fabric. The suffix "-y" transforms the noun into an adjective, emphasizing the characteristic quality of the root.
The billowy clouds drifted lazily across the summer sky.
She wore a dress with billowy sleeves that fluttered in the breeze.
The ocean grew billowy as the storm approached.
The curtains were made of billowy chiffon, giving the room an airy feel.
Smoke rose in billowy plumes from the chimney.