Inflation (noun)

1. A general increase in prices and fall in the purchasing value of money.
2. The action of inflating or the state of being inflated.
3. The expansion of the universe in the period following the Big Bang.

Origin:

Late 19th century: from latin inflare "to blow up", from in- "into" + flare "to blow".

Examples:

1. The country is facing high inflation and an economic crisis.
2. The inflation rate was reported to be 2.5% for the year.
3. The inflation of the balloon was a fun activity for the children.
4. The inflation of the universe continues to this day.
5. The rapid inflation of the housing market was a cause for concern.