from
The Collaborative International Dictionary of English v.0.48
Inflate \In*flate"\, v. t. [imp. & p. p. {Inflated}; p. pr. &
vb. n. {Inflating}.]
1. To swell or distend with air or gas; to dilate; to expand;
to enlarge; as, to inflate a bladder; to inflate the
lungs.
[1913 Webster]
When passion's tumults in the bosom rise,
Inflate the features, and enrage the eyes. --J.
Scott of
Amwell.
[1913 Webster]
2. Fig.: To swell; to puff up; to elate; as, to inflate one
with pride or vanity.
[1913 Webster]
Inflate themselves with some insane delight.
--Tennyson.
[1913 Webster]
3. To cause to become unduly expanded or increased; as, to
inflate the currency.
[1913 Webster]