boom-and-bust

[ boom-uhn-buhst ]

adjective

1. characteristic of a period of economic prosperity followed by a depression.

Word History and Origins

Origin of boom-and-bust¹

First recorded in 1940–45

Example Sentences

Leaders want to grow Oklahoma’s job landscape beyond the cyclical energy industry that attracts blue-collar workers but also creates boom-and-bust cycles, Wilkerson said.

From Seattle Times

“One of the big challenges that we’ve had here in Florida that other states also experience is boom-and-bust funding, where people invest in these sandcastles that are built specifically around an election,” and then are washed away immediately after the polls close, Mercado said.

From Seattle Times

Its boom-and-bust real estate market remains on a hot streak, nearing all-time high valuations.

From Seattle Times

Since before the state’s founding, the boom-and-bust of drought and flood have shaped our landscapes.

From Los Angeles Times

You’ve covered enough boom-and-bust cycles that I’m wondering what you’ve learned from the current moment that’ll help you better cover whatever good times are ahead.

From Slate