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

Investors are now bracing for the war to last for some time, which would likely set off inflation in global markets and could stunt Asia's economic growth. —Lucia I Suarez Sang, CBS News, 31 Mar. 2026

Elevated oil prices are fueling both inflation concerns and recessionary fears, thereby clouding the outlook for monetary policy trajectories. —Chloe Taylor, CNBC, 31 Mar. 2026

For the 80-year-old leader Lula seeking reelection this October, stabilizing diesel prices is critical to prevent truck driver strikes and keep food inflation in check. —ABC News, 31 Mar. 2026

The Fed’s experience of allowing inflation to run too hot for too long in 2021-22 is like a black cloud hanging in the distance, haunting Fed officials today. —Jill Schlesinger, Mercury News, 30 Mar. 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