Crossword Genius

Something inflationary, in a manner (3)

Ross

I believe the answer is:

air

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'manner' is the definition.
(air can mean someone's manner or character)

I don't understand how the rest of the clue works.

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for air that I've seen before include "Short song" , "Mixture of gases, especially oxygen" , "Gas mix surrounding the earth" , "Divulge" , "Ventilate a tune?" .)

I've seen this clue in the Evening Standard.
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