1. to fill with air or gas so as to expand
2. to increase artificially or excessively
3. to cause prices or currency to rise beyond normal levels
Usage: economics

Examples

• She used a pump to inflate the bicycle tire.
• The balloon began to inflate as helium filled it.
• The politician tried to inflate his accomplishments during the debate.
• Rising oil prices could inflate the cost of transportation.
• Don’t inflate the importance of this minor setback.
• The government’s spending policies may inflate the currency.
• He inflated his resume to impress potential employers.