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

The trickle-down effects of this equation are significant enough to affect employment and, over time, compel media companies to consider mergers and acquisitions to maintain their positions in the market, Marshall added.

From The Wall Street Journal ● Apr. 14, 2026

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

From BBC ● Mar. 9, 2026

There is also a trickle-down of safe-haven money: Investors who see the gold trade as too crowded are looking into silver.

From Barron's ● Oct. 8, 2025

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

From The Civilization of Illiteracy by Nadin, Mihai