balloon /bəˈluːn/ CET4 TEM4 ( ballooning, ballooned, balloons )

• 1. 

  N-COUNT A balloon is a small, thin, rubber bag that you blow air into so that it becomes larger and rounder or longer. Balloons are used as toys or decorations. 气球

  例：

  She popped a balloon with her fork.

  她用叉子把气球砰的一声戳爆了。

• 2. 

  N-COUNT A balloon is a large, strong bag filled with gas or hot air, which can carry passengers in a container that hangs underneath it. 热气球

  例：

  They are to attempt to be the first to circle the Earth non-stop by balloon.

  他们将试图成为首批乘热气球不间断环球飞行的人。

• 3. 

  V-I When something balloons, it increases rapidly in amount. (数量上) 猛增

  例：

  The jail's female and minority populations have both ballooned in recent years.

  该监狱的女性及少数民族犯人在近几年都猛增了。