Meaning & Definition of word "Inflate"

Inflate

/ɪnˈfleɪt/

verb:

  • 1. to fill (something) with air or gas so that it becomes larger or more distended.
    • Example: He used a pump to inflate the air mattress before the camping trip.
  • 2. to increase (something) excessively or artificially.
    • Example: The company decided to inflate its sales figures to attract investors.
  • 3. to cause a currency to lose value due to an increase in prices.
    • Example: The government’s policies might inflate the economy if not handled carefully.

Etymology

from Latin 'inflatus', past participle of 'inflare', meaning 'to blow into'.

Common Phrases and Expressions

inflate one's ego:

to make someone feel more important or confident than they actually are.

inflate the numbers:

to exaggerate statistics or figures.

inflate a tire:

to fill a tire with air to the correct pressure.

Related Words

deflate:

to let air or gas out of something, causing it to shrink.

puff:

to blow air or smoke in short bursts.

balloon:

a flexible bag that can be inflated with air or gas.

Slang Meanings of inflate

Meaning: inflate someone's story

Example Sentence: He tends to inflate his stories to make them more exciting.

Meaning: inflate the situation

Example Sentence: They always inflate the situation for dramatic effect.