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

The International Monetary Fund warned on Tuesday that global growth will inevitably take a hit even if the ceasefire holds, citing uncertainty around the Strait of Hormuz as a persistent drag, pushing up energy costs and inflation. —Anniek Bao, CNBC, 20 Apr. 2026

Understanding inflation, and how it’s measured, is trickier. —Edward Lotterman, Twin Cities, 19 Apr. 2026

But some observers foresee the nickel’s ultimate demise, given the steady march of inflation and the gradual erosion of purchasing power in a five-cent coin. —Daniel De Visé, USA Today, 19 Apr. 2026

As a result, fuel and fertilizer prices have soared, putting a strain on American farmers amid record inflation and trade disruptions. —Kelly McCarthy, ABC News, 18 Apr. 2026

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