boursouflé
swollen · puffy
Definition & meaning
Boursouflé means swollen, puffed up, or blistered, especially when a surface is raised or distorted by swelling. It can describe skin, a wound, or material that has bulged.
Figuratively, it describes something inflated or overblown, particularly writing or speech that feels excessively grand, elaborate, or pompous.
Grammar & Word origin
Boursouflé is the masculine singular form of the adjective; the feminine is boursouflée, and the plural forms are boursouflés and boursouflées. It is also the past participle of boursoufler (“to make or become swollen”).
The word is historically related to boursoufler. Its precise origin is uncertain, though it is associated with the idea of swelling or puffing up.
Synonyms & antonyms
Synonyms vary by context:
- For physical swelling: gonflé (“swollen” or “inflated”) is a broad, everyday term; boursouflé often suggests a distorted, uneven, or blistered surface.
- For inflated language: ampoulé (“pompous” or “overwrought”) specifically describes an affected, excessively elaborate style; emphatique (“emphatic”) emphasizes forceful expression, not necessarily excessive ornament.
Possible antonyms depend on the sense:
- For a swollen surface: plat (“flat”) or lisse (“smooth”).
- For overblown language: sobre (“restrained” or “plain”) or simple (“simple”).
Common phrases & collocations
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Examples
Après la piqûre, mon doigt est boursouflé.adjective
After the sting, my finger is swollen.
Ses paupières sont boursouflées à force de pleurer.adjective
Her eyelids are swollen from crying so much.
Au réveil, son visage était tout boursouflé.adjective
Upon waking, their face was all puffy.
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