# bubbling

/ˈbəbəɫɪŋ/ (US) · /bˈʌblɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR B2 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/bubbling
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

full of small bubbles or showing a lot of excitement and energy.

For teachers: containing or producing rising bubbles of gas; metaphorically describes a state of intense, often suppressed, emotion or activity. Frequently used as a participial adjective to describe liquids or a person's lively disposition.

## Examples

- The bubbling water in the pot is ready for the pasta.
- She could feel a bubbling excitement in her chest as the plane finally landed in Paris.
- The scientist observed the bubbling reaction in the beaker, noting that the gas release was more vigorous than the previous trial had suggested.

## Usage notes

- Often appears after linking verbs like 'is' or 'feels', or directly before a noun to describe a state of motion or emotion.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.
