# inflatable

/ɪnˈfɫeɪtəbəɫ/ (US) · /ɪnflˈeɪtəbəl/ (UK) · CEFR B1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/inflatable
Updated: 2026-05-07

## Definition

describing something that you can fill with air to make it larger and firm. You use this for things like balloons, lifeboats, or mattresses.

For teachers: designed to be filled with air or gas before use to achieve a specific shape or volume. Often used attributively to describe equipment that is portable when deflated.

## Examples

- We brought an inflatable mattress for our camping trip.
- The safety regulations require every small vessel to carry an inflatable life raft in case of emergencies.
- The expedition relied on inflatable boats because they could be easily transported across the rugged terrain between the various river systems.

## Usage notes

- Typically placed before the noun it modifies; often used in technical or recreational contexts.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.