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swelter

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈswɛltər/

KK: /ˈswɛltər/

intransitive verb
Definition

To feel very hot and uncomfortable, often due to high temperatures.


Example

During the summer, we often swelter in the heat without air conditioning.


Tense Forms

Past: sweltered

Past Participle: sweltered


Conversation
Sloth A
It’s so hot outside that I can barely move.
Sloth B
I know, I feel like I’m going to swelter just walking to the car.
Sloth A
Maybe we should just stay indoors until it cools down.
Sloth B
Good idea! I can't handle this heat for much longer.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
sizzle
broil
stew
Antonyms
chill
cool
freeze
noun
Definition

A situation where the temperature is very high and uncomfortable, often causing sweating and discomfort.


Example

The swelter of the summer afternoon made it hard to stay outside for long.


Conversation
Sloth A
Wow, it feels like we're in a swelter out here.
Sloth B
I know, right? I can barely breathe!
Sloth A
It's definitely one of those days where you just want to stay indoors.
Sloth B
transitive verb
Definition

To cause someone or something to feel very hot and uncomfortable, often due to high temperatures.


Example

The sun sweltered the hikers as they climbed the mountain.


Tense Forms

Past: sweltered

Past Participle: sweltered


Conversation
Sloth A
It feels like the sun is going to swelter us today.
Sloth B
I know, right? I can already feel the heat rising.
Sloth A
We should probably find some shade to escape this heat.
Sloth B
Root Explanation

Swelter originates from Old English 'sweltan', meaning to die or perish, which is related to the idea of being overcome by heat. The word conveys the sense of being overwhelmed by oppressive heat, leading to discomfort or exhaustion.

Memory Tip

Imagine feeling so hot that you feel like you might 'perish' — that's the essence of sweltering.

Visually Confused Words
welter
selter
beswelter
sweater
spelter
smelter
skelter
shelter
Is this page helpful?
Agreed! A cold drink would really help fight this swelter.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
heat
sweat
stifling
Antonyms
cold
chill
coolness
Definitely! I can't handle being out in this swelter for too long.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
broil
scorch
sizzle
Antonyms
cool
chill
freeze