trickle-down

American  

[trik-uhl-doun] / ˈtrɪk əlˌdaʊn /

adjective

1. of, relating to, or based on the trickle-down theory.

   the trickle-down benefits to the local community.

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trickle-down British  

adjective

1. of or concerning the theory that granting concessions such as tax cuts to the rich will benefit all levels of society by stimulating the economy

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Etymology

Origin of trickle-down

First recorded in 1950–55; adj. use of verb phrase trickle down

Example Sentences

See Examples For:

trickle-down

Yes, it’s too high, he says, but he suggests that his housing plan will deploy a trickle-down approach that starts with lessening landlords’ risks and costs and thus encourages them to build more.

From Slate ● Jun. 3, 2026

This, he said, could create a "trickle-down effect" where videos start to impact devolved politics.

From BBC ● Mar. 9, 2026

“Families are in dire need of protections right now and we can’t wait for trickle-down housing production.”

From Los Angeles Times ● Jan. 13, 2026

They cite three main factors–declining interest rates, increased government-subsidized lending, and a village cooperative program–which are likely to have a trickle-down effect on the economy.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Dec. 23, 2025

The trickle-down effect was probably part of the broader strategy.

From The Civilization of Illiteracy by Nadin, Mihai