When a recipe calls for 1 cup flax seed (golden or brown) ground. Does that mean you measure out 1 cup whole and grind it or grind them until you get one cup?

Also, I discovered that seeds swell when soaked so I’m sure if they mean soak 1 cup of flax seed and.. use it all, or soak 1/2 cup that will yeild 1 cup. I found myself with extra soaked flax seeds and I’m not sure if I’m suppose to use them all. Thanks

Sorry I posted this on the wrong forums, I am also new this site.