boom

play

verb \ˈbüm\

Definition of boom

intransitive verb
1 : to make a deep hollow sound
2a : to increase in importance, popularity, or esteemb : to experience a sudden rapid growth and expansion usually with an increase in prices business was boomingc : to develop rapidly in population and importance California boomed when gold was discovered thered : to increase greatly in size or number the population boomed
transitive verb
1 : to cause to resound —often used with out his voice booms out the lyrics
2 : to cause a rapid growth or increase of : boost
3 : to hit or kick forcefully boom a punt

See boom defined for English-language learners

Examples of boom in a Sentence

the sound of the bass drum booming
His voice boomed out across the congregation.
She boomed commands from the stern of the ship.
“What's going on here?” he boomed.
Housing construction has boomed in the past year.
Last year we almost had to close the store, but now business is booming.

Origin and Etymology of boom

Middle English bomben, bummen, of imitative origin

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First Known Use: 15th century

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boom

noun

Definition of boom

1 : a booming sound or cry —often used interjectionally to indicate suddenness then boom, he was fired
2 : a rapid expansion or increase: such asa : a general movement in support of a candidate for officeb : rapid settlement and development of a town or districtc : a rapid widespread expansion of economic activityd : an upsurge in activity, interest, or popularity a folk music boom

First Known Use of boom

circa 1500

boom

noun

Definition of boom

1 : a long spar used to extend the foot of a sail
2a : a chain or line of connected floating timbers extended across a river, lake, or harbor (as to obstruct passage or catch floating objects)b : a temporary floating barrier used to contain an oil spill
3a : a long beam projecting from the mast of a derrick to support or guide cargob : a long more or less horizontal supporting arm or brace (as for holding a microphone)
4 : a spar or outrigger connecting the tail surfaces and the main supporting structure of an aircraft

Origin and Etymology of boom

Dutch, tree, beam; akin to Old High German boum tree — more at beam

NEW! Time Traveler

First Known Use: 1627

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BOOM Defined for English Language Learners

boom

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verb

Definition of boom for English Language Learners

: to make a deep and loud sound
: to say (something) in a deep and loud voice
of a business or industry : to grow or expand suddenly

BOOM Defined for Kids

boom

play

verb \ˈbüm\

Definition of boom for Students

boomed

;

booming

1 : to make a deep, hollow, and loud sound The cannon boomed.
2 : to increase or develop rapidly Business boomed last year.

boom

play

noun

Definition of boom for Students

1 : a deep, hollow, and loud sound
2 : a rapid increase in activity or popularity a sales boom

boom

play

noun

Definition of boom for Students

1 : a long pole attached to the bottom of a sail
2 : a long beam sticking out from the mast of a derrick to support or guide something that is being lifted
3 : a long pole for holding a microphone