# puffy

/ˈpəfi/ (US) · /pˈʌfi/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/puffy
Updated: 2026-05-08

## Definition

larger or rounder than normal, usually because of swelling or because it is filled with air or soft material.

For teachers: characterised by being swollen, distended, or inflated; often describes soft, rounded volumes or physical inflammation.

## Examples

- Her eyes were puffy after she woke up from a long nap.
- The child wore a thick, puffy jacket that made it difficult for him to move his arms.
- The horizon was filled with puffy white clouds that contrasted sharply against the deep blue of the summer sky.

## Usage notes

- Often used predicatively after 'look' or 'feel' when describing physical swelling.

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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.