progressive tax

Cultural  

1. A tax that takes a higher proportion of large incomes than of small ones. (Compare regressive tax.)

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Example Sentences

A buoyant stock market and strong capital gains have turbocharged tax revenue in most states, especially those with progressive tax systems.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 22, 2026

The U.S. has a progressive tax system, meaning most people are taxed in multiple tax brackets, at rates that increase as their taxable pay rises past thresholds.

From MarketWatch • Oct. 9, 2025

“We have a pretty progressive tax policy in the state here already,” he told reporters in November.

From New York Times • Jan. 23, 2024

“Our success in this lawsuit wasn’t in doubt, considering the Legislature’s express authorization to impose a progressive tax like this,” City Attorney Pete Holmes said last month after Judge Mary Roberts tossed out the suit.

From Seattle Times • Jul. 2, 2021

He added, however, that her share of the German indemnity would wipe out her foreign debt, while a progressive tax on all but small fortunes would meet her internal obligations.

From The Inside Story of the Peace Conference by Dillon, Emile Joseph