swell
verb (used without object)
to grow in bulk, as by the absorption of moisture or the processes of growth.
is swelling
-
present progressiveof swell (3rd person singular).present progressive
Used to describe an ongoing action or state that is currently taking place in the immediate present.
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 worldwide surge in chip demand is swelling exports, corporate profits and the bank accounts of many investors, seemingly without end.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Jun. 19, 2026
Glacier melt from the Alps is swelling river levels in the Netherlands, storms and droughts are more frequent, and rising seas are increasing salination, he explained.
From Barron's ● Nov. 7, 2025
"This wave is not cresting yet - this wave is swelling," he said.
From BBC ● Oct. 18, 2023
The news is swelling the ranks of amateur prospectors, in step with the skyrocketing price of gold, which hit a near-record of more than $2,000 an ounce this week, up from $1,700 last November.
From Seattle Times ● May 22, 2023
The crowd is swelling, not just with factionless wearing black armbands with empty white circles on them, but with people from every former faction, their arms bare.
From "Allegiant" by Veronica Roth
