Definition

To rise or come up from a lower place or source, often used to describe liquids or emotions that emerge.

Example

The water began to upwell from the depths of the ocean.

Tense Forms

Conversation

I was watching that movie, and I felt tears upwell as the main character struggled.

That sounds really emotional! What movie was it?

It was a drama about friendship, and it really hit home for me.

I get that — sometimes the best stories make those feelings upwell unexpectedly.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Upwell → It is formed from "up" (meaning in a higher position or direction) and "well" (from Old English "wella", meaning a spring or source of water). The word "upwell" means to rise or flow upward, typically referring to water or other substances coming from below to the surface.

Memory Tip

Imagine water rising from a source below to a higher position — that's what upwell means.

Visually Confused Words