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

Petrodollars have funded impressive construction projects, including the “mini Dubai” near the president’s birthplace.

From The Guardian • Nov. 3, 2015

Petrodollars make up more than 90 percent of South Sudan’s revenues.

From Slate • Feb. 17, 2014

Petrodollars, he reasons coldly, can rig almost anything, including the stock market.

From Time Magazine Archive

Petrodollars and multinationals have set down roots; gasohol and meltdowns are not likely to flee from the headlines.

From Time Magazine Archive