deflate
UK: dɪˈfleɪt | US: dɪˈfleɪt
vt. to release air or gas from something, causing it to shrink
vt. to reduce the importance, value, or confidence of someone or something
vi. to lose air or gas and become smaller
deflate = de<remove> + flate<blow>
- de (prefix): from Latin de-, meaning "remove" or "reverse."
- flate (root): from Latin flare, meaning "to blow."
Etymology Origin:
The word deflate originates from Latin deflare ("to blow away"), combining de- (undoing) and flare (to blow). It entered English in the late 19th century, initially describing the physical act of releasing air (e.g., from a tire). Later, it gained figurative meanings, such as reducing confidence or economic value, mirroring the literal sense of "letting air out."
The balloon slowly deflated after the party.
Harsh criticism deflated his enthusiasm for the project.
The economy deflated after the market crash.
Be careful not to deflate the football too much.
Her sarcastic remark deflated the mood in the room.