Swell (?), v. i. [imp. Swelled (?); p. p. Swelled or Swollen (&?;); p.
pr. & vb. n. Swelling.] [AS. swellan; akin to D. zwellen, OS. & OHG.
swellan, G. schwellen, Icel. svella, Sw. svälla.] 1. To grow larger; to
dilate or extend the exterior surface or dimensions, by matter added
within, or by expansion of the inclosed substance; as, the legs swell
in dropsy; a bruised part swells; a bladder swells by inflation.
2. To increase in size or extent by any addition; to increase in volume
or force; as, a river swells, and overflows its banks; sounds swell or
diminish.
3. To rise or be driven into waves or billows; to heave; as, in
tempest, the ocean swells into waves.