inflation

[ in-fley-shuhn ]

noun

1. Economics. a persistent, substantial rise in the general level of prices related to an increase in the volume of money and resulting in the loss of value of currency ( deflation ).
2. the act of inflating.
3. the state of being inflated. inflated.

inflation

/ ɪnˈfleɪʃən /

noun

1. the act of inflating or state of being inflated
2. economics a progressive increase in the general level of prices brought about by an expansion in demand or the money supply ( demand-pull inflation ) or by autonomous increases in costs ( cost-push inflation ) Compare deflation
3. informal.
   the rate of increase of prices

inflation

1. A general increase in prices.

Other Words From

• anti-in·flation noun adjective
• nonin·flation noun
• over·in·flation noun
• rein·flation noun
• self-in·flation noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of inflation¹

First recorded in 1300–50; Middle English inflacio(u)n, from Latin inflātiōn-, stem of inflātiō, equivalent to inflāt(us), past participle of inflāre “to blow on or into, puff out” + -iō -ion; inflate

Example Sentences

But concerns remain that a shift in policies could affect inflation rates.

From Salon

Disney’s so-called experiences business, which includes the theme parks and merchandise, saw more muted growth in the fourth quarter due to inflation, cruise line expansion costs and softer results at international parks.

From Los Angeles Times

Democrats should have offered a solution to inflation and price gouging.

From Salon

However, in October last year, the BBC said it would be cancelled, after "super inflation in drama production" led to costs significantly rising.

From BBC

At last month's Budget, the government said it planned to "increase the core government grant for police forces," although it did not specify whether this would be in cash terms or taking account of inflation.

From BBC

Related Words

• boom
• expansion
• hike
• rise