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Definitions

snowball

[snoh-bawl] / ˈsnoʊˌbɔl /
VERB
increase
Synonyms
STRONGEST
escalate heighten intensify multiply proliferate swell widen
STRONG
advance aggrandize aggravate amplify annex augment boost broaden build burgeon deepen develop dilate distend double enhance enlarge exaggerate expand extend further grow inflate lengthen magnify mount pad progress prolong protract pullulate raise redouble reinforce rise sharpen soar spread strengthen supplement swarm teem thicken triple upsurge wax
WEAK
build up run up slap on step up tack on
Antonyms
STRONGEST
decrease lessen lower weaken
STRONG
abbreviate abridge compress condense contract curtail cut decline deflate degrade depress diminish discourage drop fall hinder hurt minimize narrow recede reduce retreat retrogress shorten shrink slump subtract take back undermine

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

“I’m not saying there won’t be problems, but the problems won’t cascade and snowball into a bigger problem,” Blankfein said.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 26, 2026

“It was like losing the worst snowball fight of your life.”

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 23, 2026

The suit was filed on behalf of a Costco member in the state, Matthew Stockov, and seeks class-action status, meaning it has the potential to snowball into something bigger.

From Barron's • Mar. 12, 2026

The impacts would snowball with a more sustained or severe move.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 2, 2026

As the snowball made more snow plop from a branch to the ground, Ryan had a sudden thought.

From "Ralph S. Mouse" by Beverly Cleary

From Roget's 21st Century Thesaurus, Third Edition Copyright © 2013 by the Philip Lief Group.