inflate
/ɪnˈfleɪt/
verb
- To fill something with air or gas so that it becomes larger and firmer.
- He used a pump to inflate the bicycle tires before the ride.
- Please inflate the balloons for the party decorations.
- The lifeguard inflated the rescue raft in case of an emergency.
- To increase something, such as prices or numbers, to a level that is too high or not realistic.
- The company inflated its sales figures to attract investors.
- Rising costs have inflated the price of basic goods.
- The media sometimes inflates the importance of minor events.
- To make something seem more important or impressive than it really is.
- He tends to inflate his own achievements when talking to new people.
- Don't inflate the problem; it's actually quite easy to fix.
- The politician inflated the benefits of the new policy to gain support.
Antonyms