What does "inflate" mean?

Inflate: To swell or distend with air or gas; to dilate; to expand; to enlarge; as, to inflate a bladder; to inflate the lungs. When passion's tumults in the bosom rise, Inflate the features, and enrage the eyes. J. Scott of Amwell.

Additional senses

  1. 2.Fig.: To swell; to puff up; to elate; as, to inflate one with pride or vanity. Inflate themselves with some insane delight. Tennyson.
  2. 3.To cause to become unduly expanded or increased; as, to inflate the currency.
  3. 4.To expand; to fill; to distend.

Sources