1. to become larger in size, amount, or degree
2. to fill with pride or emotion

1. a gradual increase in size, amount, or intensity
2. a long wave that moves continuously through water
Usage: nautical

1. excellent or very good
Usage: informal; dated

Examples

• Her ankle began to swell after the injury.
• The crowd started to swell as more people arrived.
• His chest swelled with pride when his daughter graduated.
• There was a swell of support for the new policy.
• The boat rocked gently on the ocean swell.
• We had a swell time at the party.
• The music swelled to a dramatic crescendo.