swell
verb (used without object)
to grow in bulk, as by the absorption of moisture or the processes of growth.
had swelled
-
past perfectof swell.past perfect
Used to express a completed action that took place before another specific past action occurred.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
The regime shut down the internet on Jan. 8, the night Sam disappeared, and moved to crush the protests that had swelled in cities nationwide.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Feb. 1, 2026
Their number had swelled to several dozen on that very hot day, a significant turnout for a community of fewer than 1,000 people.
From Salon ● Sep. 30, 2025
By the time the ban was reversed late on Monday, 8 September, the protests had swelled into a wider movement.
From BBC ● Sep. 15, 2025
The waiting list had swelled, leaving many young patients waiting years for an appointment.
From New York Times ● May 13, 2024
He might find that his heart had swelled beyond its capacity and sent him out of the world entirely.
From "The Girl Who Drank the Moon" by Kelly Barnhill
