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. balloonist n.
[ F ballon or It. ballone large ball ]