inflation

noun

in·​fla·​tion in-ˈflā-shən How to pronounce inflation (audio)
1
: an act of inflating : a state of being inflated: such as
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

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.
Although Trump remains a polarizing figure, the data suggests that voters are increasingly viewing the party as ineffective on core issues like inflation, border security, and crime. Amanda Castro, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 July 2025 But more are ready to act now, according to workplace savings professionals, based on a tax exclusion for these types of payments being made permanent as part of the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, with adjustments for inflation starting in 2026. Cheryl Winokur Munk, CNBC, 26 July 2025 Rising inflation and tariff concerns also may have a hand in Gen Z’s new attraction to estate sales. Karissa Waddick, USA Today, 26 July 2025 Braun’s tuition freeze is a bold but necessary step to restore affordability and accountability in higher education and perhaps something the state of Illinois could learn from since state universities’ tuition costs and fees continue to rise as state funding is lagging the pace of inflation. Chicago Tribune, 25 July 2025 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

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Cite this Entry

“Inflation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/inflation. Accessed 29 Jul. 2025.

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

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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