n. & v.
--n.
1. a small inflatable rubber pouch with a neck, used as a child's toy or as decoration.
2 a large usu. round bag inflatable with hot air or gas to make it rise in the air, often carrying a basket for passengers.
3 colloq. a balloon shape enclosing the words or thoughts of characters in a comic strip or cartoon.
4 a large globular drinking glass, usu. for brandy.
--v.
1. intr. & tr. swell out or cause to swell out like a balloon.
2 intr. travel by balloon.
3 tr. Brit. hit or kick (a ball etc.) high in the air.
Derivatives:
balloonist n.
Etymology: F ballon or It. ballone large ball