inflation

noun

in·​fla·​tion in-ˈflā-shən How to pronounce inflation (audio)
Synonyms of inflationnext
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

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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.
The contract bars balance-billing patients beyond insured rates and limits annual adjustments to South Region medical and transportation inflation markers. — Randy Moll, Arkansas Online, 26 Oct. 2026 In 2020, Portland voters approved caps on annual rent hikes tied to inflation. — Nathaniel Meyersohn, CNN Money, 25 Oct. 2026 And if that wasn't enough, there's also a Federal Reserve policy meeting and fresh inflation data on deck. — Kevin Stankiewicz,zev Fima, CNBC, 25 Oct. 2026 Candidates also sought to address public anxiety over rising energy prices and inflation, as many families, particularly in rural areas, struggle to make ends meet. — ABC News, 25 Oct. 2026 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

Phrases Containing inflation

Rhymes for inflation

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Browse Nearby Words

inflatedness
inflation
inflationary
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Cite this Entry

“Inflation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inflation. Accessed 27 Oct. 2026.

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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

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about inflation

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