trickle-down

[ trik-uhl-doun ]

adjective

1. of, relating to, or based on the trickle-down theory:

   the trickle-down benefits to the local community.

trickle-down

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of trickle-down¹

First recorded in 1950–55; adj. use of verb phrase trickle down

Example Sentences

Everything we see today is a result of trickle-down economics and Ronald Reagan’s embrace of the far right evangelical movement.

From Salon

And while it’s not new for preteens to say outrageous things to one another in the hopes of currying popularity, Peralta has noticed a direct trickle-down from the internet in terms of how things are said.

From Slate

D’Onofrio is confident that a rise in youth turnout driven by this year’s proposed amendments will have a beneficial trickle-down effect on the ballot for Democrats running for local office, the state Legislature—even the White House.

From Slate

When Trump slashed the corporate tax rate, his Council of Economic Advisers promised American workers would see at least $4,000 added to their bottom line — the old “trickle-down economics” sales pitch again.

From Los Angeles Times

After seeing trickle-down up close, and how it benefits wealthy donors but few others, my perspective changed.

From Salon