inflation

noun

in·​fla·​tion in-ˈflā-shən 

1

: an act of inflating : a state of being inflated: such as

a

: distension

b

: a hypothetical extremely brief period of very rapid expansion of the universe immediately following the big bang

c

: empty pretentiousness : pomposity

2

: a continuing rise in the general price level usually attributed to an increase in the volume of money and credit relative to available goods and services

Synonyms

• affectation
• affectedness
• grandiosity
• pretense
• pretence
• pretension
• pretentiousness

Examples of inflation in a Sentence

the inflation of a balloon

The government has been unable to control inflation.

The rate of inflation is high.

Recent Examples on the Web

Key number: Hopes for lower inflation and rates have dimmed. —Jonathan Lansner, San Diego Union-Tribune, 28 Apr. 2024

That number appears to reflect voters’ feelings on several issues, including negative impressions on his handling of the economy, inflation and student loan debt. —Melissa Cruz, USA TODAY, 28 Apr. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing inflation

• anti-inflation
• core inflation
• counter-inflation
• grade inflation
• headline inflation

Kids Definition

inflation

noun

in·​fla·​tion in-ˈflā-shən 

1

: an act of inflating : the state of being inflated

2

: a continual increase in the price of goods and services