national income

American  

noun

1. the total net earnings from the production of goods and services in a country over a period of time, usually one year, and consisting essentially of wages, salaries, rent, profits, and interest.

---

national income British  

noun

1. economics the total of all incomes accruing over a specified period to residents of a country and consisting of wages, salaries, profits, rent, and interest

---

Etymology

Origin of national income

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

In the late 18th century, George Washington led the Continental Army to victory, James Madison drafted the Constitution, and Alexander Hamilton designed the nation’s financial system.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 10, 2026

The Turkish authorities have said they have investigated Trend and found "no abuse of our nation's financial system" and that Turkey abides by international financial rules.

From BBC • Feb. 19, 2024

The Federal Reserve issued a current review of the nation’s financial situation on Monday.

From Washington Times • May 22, 2023

Also late Sunday, the Federal Reserve initiated a broad emergency lending program intended to shore up confidence in the nation’s financial system.

From Seattle Times • Mar. 13, 2023

Burnham hoped for an early cure to the nation’s financial malaise, but the economy did not oblige.

From "The Devil in the White City" by Erik Larson