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

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

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

Four road trips into this year, however, no trickle-down effect has been as lauded as the changes the Dodgers have made to their actual travel schedule.

From Los Angeles Times • May 23, 2025

We see this in terms of the trickle-down effect of illness, in the sense that care is also what allows us to take care of other people when they are sick.

From Salon • Mar. 15, 2025

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

From The Civilization of Illiteracy by Nadin, Mihai