Middle English Dictionary Entry
swel(le adv.
Entry Info
| Forms | swel(le adv. |
| Etymology | From swelle adj. |
Definitions (Senses and Subsenses)
Note: Cp. snel adv.
1.
Swiftly, promptly; as (also) ~.
Associated quotations
- c1460(?c1400) Beryn (Nthld 55)1120 : Fawnus, also swelle, Was aftir sent in hast, of sekenes to be curyd.
- a1500 Bevis (Cmb Ff.2.38)108/2207 : [Auch: 'Merci,' ȝhe seide..'Led me hom to þe contre']..Then seyde Befyse as swell: 'In that maner graunt y wyll.'
- a1500 Bevis (Cmb Ff.2.38)158/3385 : The lordyngys as swelle Armyd þem yn þe castell.
- a1500 Bevis (Cmb Ff.2.38)161/3439 : As swelle [Auch: Wolde he, nolde he, faire & wel He bar hors and man to þe castel].