swell

Definition

  • verb: to become larger than normal
  • verb: to expand (as in size, volume, or numbers) gradually beyond a normal or original limit
  • adjective: very good
  • adjective: socially prominent
  • often + 'up'
  • synonyms: excellent, stylish, heave

Examples

  • The storm has brought high winds and heavy 'swells' along the coast.

  • They hope to create a 'groundswell of' support for her candidacy.

  • The economy is 'swelling' at an annual rate of five percent.

Movie clips

Movie quotes

  • (..) It's the wrong knot. Like I said, the Langford double will hold tighter. The Langford double isn't a wet knot. It's too dangerous. If the rope swells, she can't slip it. - I can slip a Langford underwater. - We can practice. - Borden, he said no. - Oh, you know knots better than me? (..)
    2006 The Prestige