inflation

noun

in·​fla·​tion in-ˈflā-shən How to pronounce inflation (audio)
1
: an act of inflating : a state of being inflated: such as
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

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
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.
Tariffs—added on top of supply chain pressure and inflation—are changing the math. Justin Worland, Time, 17 Oct. 2025 Consumer data reveals a growing appetite for affordable, healthier, and savory alternatives, as chocolate prices increase and inflation sticks around. Liz Regalia, Parents, 17 Oct. 2025 The more than 6% increase in electricity costs across that same window was more than double the inflation rate for the year ending in August. Christian Datoc, The Washington Examiner, 17 Oct. 2025 At that point, the Fed may be forced to deal with an inflation problem all over again. David Goldman, CNN Money, 17 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for inflation

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of inflation was in the 14th century

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Inflation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inflation. Accessed 22 Oct. 2025.

Kids Definition

inflation

noun
in·​fla·​tion in-ˈflā-shən How to pronounce inflation (audio)
1
: an act of inflating : the state of being inflated
2
: a continual increase in the price of goods and services

More from Merriam-Webster on inflation

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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