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to puff up
[phrase form: puff]
01
to make something larger or expand, often by adding air or gas
Example
The stylist puffed up her hair with a blow dryer.
The technician puffed up the air mattress to its full size.
The artist puffed up the balloon to create a sculpture.
1.1
to expand or become larger, usually because of being filled with air or gas
Example
The marshmallow puffs up when heated over the fire.
The chef watched the pastry puff up while baking.
The balloon began to puff up as he blew air into it.
02
to swell and become larger, usually because of an injury or illness
Example
His eyes puffed up from the allergic reaction.
The wound began to puff up, causing discomfort.
Her ankle started to puff up after she twisted it during the hike.
03
to praise or exaggerate how impressive or important someone or something is
Example
The CEO puffed up the company ’s achievements during the press conference.
The promotional material puffed up the vacation resort as the ultimate getaway destination.
He puffed up the new restaurant, calling it the best dining experience in town.
3.1
to become noticeably proud or arrogant
Example
The coach puffed up with pride as his team won the championship.
She puffed up when her artwork was praised by the critics.
He puffed up with pride after receiving the award.
04
(of an animal) to expand its body or a part of it, typically to appear bigger or keep warm
Example
The penguin puffed up its chest to attract a mate.
The bird puffed up its feathers to stay warm in the cold weather.
The cat puffed up its fur to appear more intimidating to the other animals.
4.1
(of an animal) to become larger, often with feathers or fur rising to keep warm
Example
The cat puffs up when it gets cold.
The bird 's feathers puff up when it gets cold.
The small ducklings puff up during the winter months to retain heat.
word family
puff up
puff up
Verb
Example
The stylist puffed up her hair with a blow dryer.
The technician puffed up the air mattress to its full size.
The artist puffed up the balloon to create a sculpture.
He puffed up the inflatable mattress before setting it up.
The baker puffed up the dough to make it rise properly.
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