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 of inflation

• affectation
• arrogance
• pretense
• pretension
• vanity

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

Between price hikes due to tariffs and inflation, sagging consumer confidence, and shoppers becoming choosier than ever, retailers had plenty to overcome this holiday season. —David Moin, Footwear News, 26 Dec. 2025

Gold is considered a resilient investment, with investors expecting the yellow metal will retain its value in crisis, if inflation surges, or if currencies drop in value. —Cnn.com Wire Service, Mercury News, 25 Dec. 2025

Tokyo’s inflation numbers are widely considered to be a leading indicator of nationwide trends. —Nur Hikmah Md Ali, CNBC, 25 Dec. 2025

Amid inflation and uncertain economic times, there is unprecedented demand on food pantries here and across the country. —Alexander Coolidge, Cincinnati Enquirer, 24 Dec. 2025

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

Rhymes for inflation

• ablation
• bination
• carnation
• cassation
• castration
• causation
• centration
• cessation
• cetacean
• chelation
• citation
• collation

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