cash flow

noun

1. the sum of the after-tax profit of a business plus depreciation and other noncash charges: used as an indication of internal funds available for stock dividends, purchase of buildings and equipment, etc.

cash flow

noun

1. the movement of money into and out of a business
2. a prediction of such movement over a given period

Word History and Origins

Origin of cash flow¹

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

In 40% of institutions, cash flow may become so tight there will only be enough money in the bank to cover one month at a time of bills including salaries.

From BBC

“You’re going to have serious cash flow issues even in a state as large as California, even with budget reserves that are significant,” the governor told the outlet.

From Los Angeles Times

The company’s negative operating cash flows have raised concerns about its ability to survive, a report filed to the U.S.

From Los Angeles Times

Walgreens plans to close about 1,200 stores over the next three years in an effort to improve earnings and increase cash flow, the struggling company announced Tuesday.

From Los Angeles Times

The closing was the result of a mix of cash flow constraints that are typical of schools like UArts, which depend on tuition dollars.

From New York Times