swollen
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /ˈswoʊlən/
KK: /ˈswoʊlən/
adjective
Definition
Larger than normal due to an increase in size or volume, often caused by fluid or pressure.
Example
After the injury, her ankle was swollen and painful.
Conversation
I noticed my ankle is really swollen after the hike yesterday.
Oh no! Did you twist it or something?
Yeah, I think I stepped on a rock wrong.
You should probably ice it to reduce the swollen area.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
inflated
distended
expanded
Antonyms
deflated
shrunken
contracted
verb
Definition
To become larger or puffed up, often due to an injury or inflammation.
Example
After the bee sting, her hand became swollen and painful.
Tense Forms
Past: swelled
Past Participle: swollen
Conversation
I noticed my ankle is really swollen after the game.
Oh no, did you twist it while playing?
Yeah, I think I might have gone too hard on that last play.
Root Explanation
Swollen → It originates from the Old English 'swellan' (meaning to swell or grow). The word describes something that has increased in size or volume, typically due to an accumulation of fluid or air.
Memory Tip
Imagine something that has 'grown' ('swellan') larger than normal — that's what swollen means.
Visually Confused Words
unswollen
stollen
solen