Swelling: meaning, definitions and examples

Similar to its first mention, swelling describes the enlargement of a part of the body, usually due to fluid accumulation or injury. It is a common term in everyday language.

• The bee sting caused immediate swelling on his hand
• Swelling can be reduced by applying ice to the affected area

Enlargement is often used in a medical or technical context to describe the increase in size of an organ, tissue, or something external.

• The doctor noticed an enlargement of the thyroid gland
• An enlargement of the photo revealed more details

Inflammation refers to the body's response to injury or infection, characterized by redness, heat, and swelling. It has a medical context and often indicates a problem.

• The inflammation in his knee caused a lot of pain
• She was prescribed medication to reduce the inflammation in her gums

Puffiness is typically used to describe a swollen or bloated appearance, often in the context of the face or eyes. It can be due to lack of sleep, allergies, or a mild injury.

• She woke up with puffiness around her eyes
• The puffiness in his face was due to an allergic reaction

This term is commonly used in medical settings to describe an abnormal enlargement of a body part, typically due to an injury or infection.

• He has a swelling on his ankle after the fall
• The doctor examined the swelling on her arm

Usually refers to the state of being full or filled, often related to the feeling after eating or the capacity of a container. It has a neutral or positive connotation.

• She felt a sense of fullness after the large meal
• The fullness of the glass left no room for more water

Typically used in a medical or biological context to describe the act of expanding or being enlarged due to internal pressure, often linked to conditions like bloating or gas.

• The patient is experiencing abdominal distension
• Distension of the stomach can be quite uncomfortable

More general term that can be used in various contexts such as physical growth, increase in size, or spread. It doesn't carry the negative connotation of illness or injury.

• We are planning the expansion of our company next year
• The universe is in a constant state of expansion