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boom-and-bust

American  
[boom-uhn-buhst] / ˈbum ənˈbʌst /

adjective

  1. characteristic of a period of economic prosperity followed by a depression.


Etymology

Origin of boom-and-bust

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

See Examples For:

Some analysts say AI has brought a new dimension to the dramatic boom-and-bust cycles the memory chip industry is known for.

From Barron's Jul. 15, 2026

In an attempt to manage the boom-and-bust cycle this time, Micron has introduced a new type of long-term agreement that it has said will help smooth out demand trends from its big customers.

From MarketWatch Jul. 3, 2026

The boom-and-bust pattern seemed to be playing out once again coming out of the pandemic.

From Barron's Jun. 26, 2026

The sector has historically been known for its boom-and-bust nature.

From MarketWatch Jun. 18, 2026

From 1926 on, Odessa became forever enmeshed in the cycles of the boom-and-bust oil town.

From "Friday Night Lights: A Town, A Team, And A Dream" by H.G. Bissinger

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