noun
inflation
Expansion caused by filling something with gas.
Proper inflation keeps the bicycle tires firm and ready to roll.
Etymology
The Latin verb means to blow into. Inflation preserves that literal action when gas enters a space and causes its enclosing material to expand.
More examples
- The balloon expands during inflation.
- Check the raft for leaks after inflation.
- The air mattress requires inflation before use.
Forms
inflation
inflate verb — Make larger by filling with gas.
inflatable adjective — Designed to expand when filled with gas.