inflation

American  

[in-fley-shuhn] / ɪnˈfleɪ ʃən /

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.

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inflation British  

/ 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

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inflation Cultural  

1. A general increase in prices.

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Other Word Forms

• anti-inflation noun
• noninflation noun
• overinflation noun
• reinflation noun
• self-inflation noun

Etymology

Origin of inflation

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

The report showed consumer spending rising at an annual rate of 3.5%, compared with 2.5% in the previous quarter, despite a slowing job market and frustration about inflation.

From BBC

Proper inflation and tread can reduce the risk of hydroplaning.

From Los Angeles Times

The hefty cumulative inflation is starting to weigh on consumers, and now some Americans are falling behind on their car payments.

From The Wall Street Journal

While inflation remains well above the Fed's two percent target, Powell and other policymakers have described the weakening employment market as the greater concern at the moment.

From Barron's

Shoppers with modest incomes are expected to prioritize necessities due to inflation and reduced benefits, potentially boosting discount retailers.

From Barron's

Related Words

• boom
• expansion
• hike
• rise