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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.


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

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of trickle-down

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

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

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

From Los Angeles Times

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

That number is down to 600 after a budget cut at the nonprofit, which is partially funded by the city of L.A. in what Perez called “a trickle-down” of federal and state dollars.

From Los Angeles Times

Silver prices have surged 98% this year, thanks to booming industrial demand and a trickle-down of safe-haven money away from gold.

From Barron's

“Eventually, culture and morale are affected, and it has trickle-down effects in terms of performance and engagement.”

From The Wall Street Journal