turgid

1. Swollen or distended; inflated.

   synonyms:swollenbloated

2. Excessively ornate or complex in style or language.

   synonyms:pretentiousgrandiloquent

The word 'turgid' comes from the Latin 'turgidus', meaning 'swollen' or 'distended'. It has been used in English since the late 16th century.

The term is often encountered in scientific, literary, and medical contexts. It can describe anything from the physical state of an object to the complexity of writing.

While not used daily by most people, it appears in academic writing and discussions about literature or biology.

The river became turgid after the heavy rains, overflowing its banks.

His turgid prose made it difficult for readers to engage with the underlying message.

The biologist noted the turgid cells under the microscope, indicating a healthy plant.

The word 'turgid' is a delightful blend of science and literature. Originating from the Latin 'turgidus', it captures the essence of something swollen or inflated, whether it's a river after a storm or an over-the-top piece of writing. While it may not roll off the tongue every day, 'turgid' adds a splash of flair to conversations about both biology and literature. So next time you encounter something that feels a bit too grand, remember that a touch of 'turgid' can help describe it perfectly!