trickle-down

adjective

trick·​le-down ˈtri-kəl-ˈdau̇n How to pronounce trickle-down (audio)
1
: relating to or working on the principle of trickle-down theory
trickle-down economics
2
: relating to or being an effect caused gradually by remote or indirect influences

Examples of trickle-down in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This initiative is expected to have a trickle-down effect for the European carriers’ customers, enabling them to cut the carbon footprint of their international supply chains. Glenn Taylor, Sourcing Journal, 29 Dec. 2025 There is also the possibility that, should Manuel land on a sitting head coach, the trickle-down effect makes this carousel spin like an unprecedented cyclone. David Close, CNN Money, 11 Dec. 2025 The trickle-down effect helped secure key plot-specific pieces of costuming, but also will set the groundwork for Season 2 and beyond. Sarah Shachat, IndieWire, 9 Dec. 2025 Third, there will be a trickle-down effect to get players in more appropriate sports in the lineup. Michael Russo, New York Times, 2 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for trickle-down

Word History

First Known Use

1944, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of trickle-down was in 1944

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Cite this Entry

“Trickle-down.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/trickle-down. Accessed 2 Jan. 2026.

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