long tail

British  

noun

1. commerce the segment of a market representing the large number of products that sell in small quantities, considered by some to be of greater financial value than the few products that sell in very large quantities

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Etymology

Origin of long tail

C21: from the appearance of typical sales patterns on a graph

Example Sentences

This investment follows the long tail of a decrease in defence spending during the last decade, dropping by 22% between 2009 and 2017 - only recently returning to 2010 levels.

From BBC • Apr. 14, 2026

Bain described a “K-shaped” market in private equity, with “elite funds” continuing to perform well while the long tail of other funds “muddles through.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 25, 2026

Colbert was given a pink slip with a long tail this year.

From Salon • Dec. 24, 2025

Charlie Puth, “Changes” The long tail of “Sob Rock.”

From Los Angeles Times • Dec. 4, 2025

It stood about three feet high and was gray with a white belly and long tail.

From "The Stars Beneath Our Feet" by David Barclay Moore