swell
UK: swɛl | US: swɛl
v. to increase in size, volume, or intensity
v. to bulge or protrude outward
n. a gradual rise or expansion (e.g., of waves or sound)
adj. (informal) excellent or stylish
The word "swell" originates from Old English swellan, meaning "to grow or expand," derived from Proto-Germanic swellaną. It shares roots with Dutch zwellen and German schwellen, all conveying the idea of gradual enlargement. Originally tied to physical expansion (e.g., waves, body parts), its meaning later extended metaphorically to sound, emotion, and even slang for "excellent" (19th-century colloquialism). The monosyllabic structure reflects its ancient Germanic roots, preserving simplicity while adapting to broader contexts.
The river began to swell after days of heavy rain.
Her ankle started to swell from the sprain.
The music swelled to a dramatic climax.
Surfers waited for the next big swell.
(Slang) "That concert was absolutely swell!"