inflated

1 of 2

adjective

in·​flat·​ed in-ˈflā-təd 

1

: distended with air or gas

2

: expanded to an abnormal or unjustifiable volume or level

inflated prices

3

: elaborated or heightened by artificial or empty means

an inflated style of writing

4

: being hollow and enlarged or distended

inflated

2 of 2

past tense and past participle of inflate

Synonyms of inflated

Adjective

• exaggerated

Examples of inflated in a Sentence

Adjective

a writer with an inflated reputation

an inflated style of writing

She objects to the inflated salaries that many professional athletes now receive.

Recent Examples on the Web

Adjective

As part of the scheme, prosecutors allege, Heflin conspired with other companies and individuals to predetermine who would win certain business, at times submitting intentionally inflated bids to schools. — Daniel Libit, Sportico.com, 27 Oct. 2026

As retailers roll out seasonal promotions across clothing, appliances and electronics, inflated reference prices and limited-time pressure can turn a modest discount into something that feels like a steal. — Ashley Lynch, Kansas City Star, 27 Oct. 2026

Since the Iran war began in late February, most dealmaking has gone on hold amid inflated valuations of oil companies. — Jordan Blum, Fortune, 26 Oct. 2026

The suit alleged that LAFS had used the inflated placement stats to maintain accreditation and eligibility for federal student loans. — Gene Maddaus, Variety, 26 Oct. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

Adjective

1652, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Rhymes for inflated

• abated
• ablated
• awaited
• belated
• berated
• castrated
• chelated
• citrated
• collated
• conflated
• created
• curated

Kids Definition

inflated

adjective

in·​flat·​ed

in-ˈflāt-əd

: hollow and stretched or swelled

inflated pods of a plant