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.
In fact, the SSL-1 benefits from some of the trickle-down technology from the brand’s professional tier of studio products, such as the mic preamp and headphone output. Mark Sparrow, Forbes.com, 28 May 2026 Its wearer was the tech entrepreneur Yu-Chi Lyra Kuo (trickle-down evidence of the gala’s unspoken Silicon Valley subtheme). Jane Bua, New Yorker, 14 May 2026 The trickle-down effect was too much to recover from. Michael Russo, New York Times, 14 May 2026 Factoring in trickle-down impacts—like empty restaurants and unused services—the total rises to roughly $5 billion, with worst-case estimates nearing $10 billion. Ashley Miznazi, Miami Herald, 9 May 2026 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 4 Jun. 2026.

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