loss leader

noun

: something (such as merchandise) sold at a loss in order to draw customers

loss-leader

ˈlȯs-ˈlē-dər 

adjective

Examples of loss leader in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

And if the financials work, offering a megabargain over Black Friday — say, a full year of both services for $100 — might make sense as a loss leader to rapidly drive sign-ups for the combined entity. — Josef Adalian, Vulture, 1 Oct. 2026

The ski-leasing business is a loss leader for the store, but ultimately pays dividends. — Jean E. Palmieri, Footwear News, 10 Sep. 2026

But the loss leader can add up for American institutions – and not just malls. — Jessica Guynn, USA Today, 26 Aug. 2026

The Devices business, which Roku treats as a loss leader for the Platforms side of the house, had revenue of $118 million, down 16%, with the decline driven primarily by lower player unit sales and promotional pricing. — Todd Spangler, Variety, 30 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1917, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for loss leader

• cheerleader
• proofreader
• ringleader
• bleeder
• breeder
• feeder
• lieder
• meader
• pleader
• reader
• reeder
• seeder

Legal Definition

loss leader

noun

loss lead·​er

: something (as merchandise) sold at a loss in order to draw customers

loss-leader adjective