Overinflated

Overinflated describes something that has been inflated beyond its safe, recommended, or nominal level. The term is used in both literal and figurative senses. Literally, it applies to objects such as tires, basketballs, balloons, or other inflatable items. Figuratively, it describes a condition in which value, expectations, or claims exceed what is warranted, often due to exaggeration or speculation.

In mechanical contexts, overinflation increases risks. For tires and other pressurized equipment, exceeding the recommended pressure can reduce grip, cause uneven wear, and raise the chance of a blowout. It also makes the ride harsher and may reduce steering response. Balloons or inflatable structures can burst if they are inflated beyond their design limits. Inflation is typically measured by pressure units such as psi or kilopascals, and manufacturers specify safe ranges.

Economically or rhetorically, overinflation refers to prices, valuations, or claims that exceed intrinsic worth or plausible projections. Asset overvaluation can form a price bubble, followed by sharp corrections when sentiment shifts or fundamentals become apparent. In marketing or personal discourse, overinflation can occur when products or abilities are described with excessive or misleading claims.