inflated

adjective

in·​flat·​ed in-ˈflā-təd How to pronounce inflated (audio)
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.
Netanyahu insists this is necessary to prevent Hamas from looting the aid entering the strip or selling it to people in Gaza at a higher inflated price. Helena Skinner, ABC News, 22 May 2025 Overly inflated ovations, some with runtimes comparable to a short film, used to be rare on the Croisette. Gary Baum, HollywoodReporter, 16 May 2025 This reform has benefited every Floridian by reducing the hidden costs that were once passed onto consumers through inflated premiums. Michelle Smith, The Orlando Sentinel, 11 May 2025 In such a scenario, as Russians adjust to new external circumstances, new inflated expectations may arise. Andrei Kolesnikov, Foreign Affairs, 9 May 2025 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 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

inflated

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

More from Merriam-Webster on inflated

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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