to make something increase in size by filling it with air, or to increase in size when filled with air

He inflated the balloons with helium. 他给气球充了氦气。

We watch the hot-air balloon slowly inflate. 我们看着热气球慢慢胀大。

to become or to make something larger or more important

They inflated their part in the rescue every time they told the story. 他们每次讲这个故事时都要夸大自己在营救中的作用。

The star's ego has inflated to dangerous proportions.