balloon

bal-loon · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A small rubber bag inflated with air or gas, used as a toy or decoration.

  2. 2.

    A large bag filled with hot air or gas to make it rise into the sky.

  3. 3.

    A rounded outline in a cartoon containing speech or thought.

  4. 4.

    Swell or puff out like a balloon.

  5. 5.

    Increase rapidly.

Forms

plural: balloons

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    hot air balloon — A balloon that rises due to heated air inside.
  • •
    trial balloon — An idea put forward to test reactions.
  • •
    balloon payment — A large final payment on a loan.
  • •
    when the balloon goes up — When trouble or action begins.
  • •
    go over like a lead balloon — To be poorly received.

Related words

See also: aviation, float, inflate, party
Synonyms: inflatable

Etymology

From French ballon ("large ball"), augmentative of balle ("ball"), from Italian pallone ("large ball").