deflate
Elementary (A2)
IPA: /dɪˈfleɪt/
KK: /dɪˈfleɪt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To lose air or gas, causing a reduction in size or pressure.
Example
The balloon deflated slowly after being pricked by a thorn.
Tense Forms
Past: deflated
Past Participle: deflated
Conversation
Did you see that balloon at the party?
Yeah, it was huge! I noticed it started to deflate after a while.
It’s funny how they lose air so quickly, isn't it?
Definitely! I wonder if they just need better quality.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
collapse
sink
shrivel
Antonyms
inflate
expand
rise
transitive verb
Definition
To let air or gas out of something, causing it to become smaller or less full. It can also mean to reduce the importance or value of something.
Example
He had to deflate the balloon before putting it away.
Tense Forms
Past: deflated
Past Participle: deflated
Conversation
Did you see how the team deflated after losing the match?
Yeah, it was tough to watch them go from excited to disappointed so quickly.
I felt bad for them; it really seemed to deflate their spirits.
Root Explanation
Deflate → It is formed from "de-" (meaning down or away) and "flare" (from Latin "flare", meaning to blow or inflate). The word "deflate" means to let air or gas out, causing something to shrink or decrease in size.
Memory Tip
Think of letting air out 'down' ('de-') from something that was 'blown up' ('flare') — that's why deflate means to reduce in size by releasing air.
Visually Confused Words
delate
defoliate
defalcate
reflate
efflate
delater
dealate
elate