petrodollars

American  

[pe-troh-dol-erz] / ˈpɛ troʊˌdɒl ərz /

plural noun

1. surplus revenues in dollars accumulated by petroleum-exporting countries, as those of the Middle East, especially when then used for foreign loans or investments.

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Etymology

Origin of petrodollars

1970–75; petro- ² + dollars ( def. )

Example Sentences

The schools, clinics, the manicured golf course — onetime amenities from an industry awash in petrodollars — gone or overgrown with weeds.

From Los Angeles Times • Feb. 15, 2026

Since then, the government, under the economic leadership of Maduro's then–Vice President Rodriguez, began injecting petrodollars into the market whenever they were available.

From Barron's • Jan. 22, 2026

They are also concerned about disruptions to their ambitious economic and social development plan, called Vision 2030, which aims to boost tourism and wean the kingdom off its reliance on petrodollars.

From The Wall Street Journal • Jan. 13, 2026

It’s the latest move into sports by Middle Eastern funds, whose coffers are bulging with petrodollars and which have been eager to build up soft power by buying into global brands.

From New York Times • Jun. 23, 2023

Abu Dhabi’s petrodollars have been spent wisely so debt-free City goes to Istanbul for its second Champions League final in three years and fresh from sealing a seventh Premier League title in 12 seasons.

From Seattle Times • Jun. 8, 2023