B2noun2K

Balloon

UK /["/bəˈluːn/"]/US /["/bəˈluːn/"]/

Definition

a small bag made of very thin rubber that becomes larger and rounder when you fill it with air or gas. Balloons are brightly coloured and used as decorations or toys.

In simple words: A small, flexible bag that you can fill with air or gas.

Examples

  • **to blow up/burst/pop a balloon**
  • My balloon has burst!
  • A thousand balloons were released to mark the event.
  • They tied the balloons to the back of the car.
  • helium balloons for the children's party
  • We went up in a balloon.
  • She crossed the Atlantic in a hot-air balloon.
  • My suggestion went down like a lead balloon.
  • We have to get out of here before the balloon goes up!

Usage notes

Used in both casual and festive contexts, like parties. Less common in formal writing.

Grammar pattern

standalone noun

Memory hint

Think of a balloon floating high, making a 'boom' sound when it pops!

Collocations

  • helium
  • water
  • colourful/​colorful
  • blow up
  • inflate
  • burst
  • burst
  • pop
  • barrage
  • hot-air
  • weather
  • go up in
  • launch
  • release
  • float by
  • float over
  • float up
  • flight
  • race
  • in a balloon

Synonyms

  • airship
  • inflatable
  • blimp

Antonyms

  • deflation
  • popped balloon
  • flat

Common mistakes

  • Confusing the word with 'ball' which is a different object.
  • Mispronouncing as 'baloon' instead of 'buh-LOON'.