inflation
noun
in·fla·tion
in-ˈflā-shən 
1
a
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
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
The biggest driver of the recent uptick in mortgage rates has been the war with Iran, which has driven up energy prices and caused concerns that inflation will not subside.
—
Zach Halaschak, The Washington Examiner, 24 Mar. 2026
Rising energy prices and inflation concerns amid the conflict in the Middle East have caused borrowing costs for a home mortgage to climb.
—Amy Wenk, AJC.com, 23 Mar. 2026
Due to certain inflation adjustments in how Social Security is calculated and how past earnings are adjusted for inflation, the maximum benefit rose to $5,251 per month, totaling over $63,000 annually in 2026.
—Alexis Simmerman, Austin American Statesman, 23 Mar. 2026
Gold prices are driven by inflation expectations, central bank policy, global economic conditions and investor demand.
—Usa Today, USA Today, 23 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for inflation
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Zach Halaschak, The Washington Examiner, 24 Mar. 2026
Rising energy prices and inflation concerns amid the conflict in the Middle East have caused borrowing costs for a home mortgage to climb.
—Amy Wenk, AJC.com, 23 Mar. 2026
Due to certain inflation adjustments in how Social Security is calculated and how past earnings are adjusted for inflation, the maximum benefit rose to $5,251 per month, totaling over $63,000 annually in 2026.
—Alexis Simmerman, Austin American Statesman, 23 Mar. 2026
Gold prices are driven by inflation expectations, central bank policy, global economic conditions and investor demand.
—Usa Today, USA Today, 23 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for inflation
Cite this Entry
“Inflation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inflation. Accessed 24 Mar. 2026.
Copy CitationKids 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
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