inflated

adjective

in·​flat·​ed in-ˈflā-təd How to pronounce inflated (audio)
Synonyms of inflatednext
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

Examples of inflated in a Sentence

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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Advertisement Billions of dollars that could have gone toward infrastructure, education, and public services have instead been diverted into inflated contracts, legal settlements, patronage networks, and crisis management. Israel Melendez Ayala, Time, 30 Jan. 2026 Oversized fits—from bomber jackets and cow-print fleece coordinates to wide-leg jeans—were balanced with boots with inflated toes and straps. Angela Velasquez, Sourcing Journal, 29 Jan. 2026 Prepare to take up space in baggy, inflated silhouettes with playful proportions. Andrea Bossi, Refinery29, 29 Jan. 2026 The ball itself was usually an inflated animal bladder, like a cow bladder, explains Louis Moore, a professor at Michigan State University, who teaches sports history. Jaclyn Diaz, NPR, 28 Jan. 2026 See All Example Sentences for inflated

Word History

First Known Use

1652, in the meaning defined at sense 3

Time Traveler
The first known use of inflated was in 1652

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Cite this Entry

“Inflated.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inflated. Accessed 4 Feb. 2026.

Kids Definition

inflated

adjective
in·​flat·​ed
in-ˈflāt-əd
: hollow and stretched or swelled
inflated pods of a plant

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