Definition

Filled with air or gas, making it larger than normal; also used to describe something that is exaggerated or made to seem more important than it really is.

Example

The balloon was inflated to its maximum size before the party.

Conversation

Have you seen the prices for concert tickets lately?

Yeah, they are so inflated it’s ridiculous!

I know, it’s like they think everyone has an inflated budget.

Exactly! It makes it hard to enjoy live music anymore.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Inflated → It is formed from "in-" (meaning into or within) and "flatus" (from Latin, meaning to blow or breathe). The word "inflated" describes something that has been blown up or filled with air, typically to a greater size than normal.

Memory Tip

Think of something being 'blown up' or filled 'into' a larger size — 'in-' means into, and 'flatus' means to blow.

Visually Confused Words