Puff up: meaning, definitions and examples

Typically used to describe something becoming larger or fuller, often in a physical sense. Can also describe someone becoming more self-important or proud.

• The bird puffed up its feathers to appear larger
• He puffed up with pride after receiving the award

Commonly used for filling something with air or gas. Can also refer to increasing prices or making something seem bigger in a metaphorical sense.

• Please inflate the balloons for the party
• The store decided to inflate the prices before the sale

Usually refers to an explosion or becoming very angry. Can also mean enlarging a photo.

• The car blew up after the crash
• She blew up when she heard the bad news
• Can you blow up this photo to a larger size?

Often used when talking about making something seem bigger, better, or more important than it actually is. Usually has a negative connotation.

• He tends to exaggerate his achievements
• Don’t believe everything she says; she likes to exaggerate

Used when something becomes inflated or swollen, often quickly and noticeably. Commonly used for physical reactions or appearances.

• Her face puffed up after the allergic reaction
• The bread puffs up nicely in the oven

Used when something increases in size, often gradually and can be biological (like body parts) or emotional (like pride). Can have both positive and negative connotations depending on the context.

• His ankle began to swell after the injury
• She felt her pride swell as her name was called

Used when something swells or expands abnormally, often related to the human body or animals and generally having a negative connotation.

• After eating a heavy meal, he felt bloated
• The dog’s stomach bloated after drinking too much water