welter
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈwɛltər/
KK: /ˈwɛltər/
intransitive verb
Definition
To roll or toss about in a liquid or to be in a state of confusion or turmoil.
Example
The waves began to welter violently during the storm.
Tense Forms
Past: weltered
Past Participle: weltered
Conversation
Did you see how the dogs welter in the mud after the rain?
Yeah, it was hilarious to watch them roll around!
I love how they just don’t care and enjoy being messy.
Exactly! It’s like they’re having the time of their lives.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
wallow
roll
surge
Antonyms
stabilize
calm
settle
noun
Definition
A confused or chaotic mixture of things, often in a disordered state.
Example
The room was filled with a welter of clothes and books after the party.
Conversation
I walked into my room and found a total welter of clothes everywhere.
Wow, it sounds like you really need to clean up!
Yeah, I can't believe how quickly it turned into a welter of mess.
Root Explanation
Welter originates from Middle English 'weltren', meaning to roll or tumble, which is derived from Old English 'wealtrian', meaning to roll or to turn over. The word describes a state of confusion or turmoil, akin to rolling or tumbling about.
Memory Tip
Imagine something rolling or tumbling in a chaotic way — that's what 'welter' means, reflecting a state of confusion or disorder.
Visually Confused Words
swelter
bewelter
wolter
wilter
wetter
wether
wester
welder