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to puff up
[phrase form: puff]
01
to make something larger or expand, often by adding air or gas
Examples
The baker puffed up the dough to make it rise properly.
She puffed the pillow up to make it more comfortable.
1.1
to expand or become larger, usually because of being filled with air or gas
Examples
The marshmallow puffs up when heated over the fire.
The chef watched the pastry puff up while baking.
02
to swell and become larger, usually because of an injury or illness
Examples
Her ankle started to puff up after she twisted it during the hike.
The bee sting made his hand puff up quickly.
03
to praise or exaggerate how impressive or important someone or something is
Examples
The CEO puffed up the company ’s achievements during the press conference.
The magazine puffed up the celebrity ’s latest film as a must-see.
3.1
to become noticeably proud or arrogant
Examples
She tends to puff up when talking about her achievements.
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
Examples
The cat puffed up its fur to appear more intimidating to the other animals.
The squirrel puffed its tail up to look bigger in front of potential threats.
4.1
(of an animal) to become larger, often with feathers or fur rising to keep warm
Examples
The cat puffs up when it gets cold.
The squirrel becomes puffed up to stay warm in the winter.
