consumer price index

American  

noun

1. an index of the changes in the cost of goods and services to a typical consumer, based on the costs of the same goods and services at a base period. CPI

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consumer price index Cultural  

1. An index published by the government each month of prices for a representative sample of goods and services. The consumer price index was formerly known as the cost-of-living index.

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Etymology

Origin of consumer price index

First recorded in 1945–50

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

consumer price index

While the U.S. core consumer price index rose by 0.3% month-on-month in August, overall, the 12-month rate stands at 2.4%, down from 3.1% last year.

From MarketWatch ● Sep. 16, 2026

The Labor Department on Friday reported that the consumer price index rose 0.4% in August, and 3.4% over the last year.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Sep. 11, 2026

Friday's release of the US consumer price index for August is seen as critical in deciding whether the Fed hikes rates next week or stands put.

From Barron's ● Sep. 7, 2026

July’s consumer price index report published earlier this month was down slightly from its June reading, lifting some immediate pressure off the central bank to increase at its September interest-rate meeting.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 27, 2026

Inflation shall be measured by means of the consumer price index on a comparable basis, taking into account differences in national definitions.

From The Treaty of the European Union, Maastricht Treaty, 7th February, 1992 by European Union

Related Words

• price index
• retail price index