Bulging: meaning, definitions and examples

Used to describe something that is sticking out and looks like it is about to burst, often used for eyes, muscles, or bags of items.

• His eyes were bulging in surprise.
• The bag was bulging with groceries.

Describes something that has become larger than normal, often used for parts of the body after an injury or illness.

• Her eyes were swollen from crying.
• His knee was swollen after the fall.

Used for something that is sticking out from a surface, often used for bones, objects, or features.

• The broken bone was protruding through the skin.
• Her nose was slightly protruding.

Usually describes something that has increased in size due to an injury, infection, or another reason, often used for body parts or areas.

• He noticed a swelling on his ankle.
• The swelling in her throat made it hard to breathe.

Describes something that extends or hangs over something else, often used for structures, cliffs, or eaves.

• The rock was overhanging the path.
• The branches were overhanging the roof.