deficit spending

noun

1. the practice of spending funds in excess of income, especially by a government.

Word History and Origins

Origin of deficit spending¹

First recorded in 1935–40

Example Sentences

A 2009 constitutional amendment limiting deficit spending has come back to haunt the current government after the constitutional court ruled it could not use special emergency funds to skirt deficit limits.

From Seattle Times

Since Republicans are forever calling Democrats big spenders, take a glance at deficit spending — but maybe only a glance, because if you are a Republican voter you won’t be happy.

From Salon

But in recent months China’s central government has authorized extra bond sales, which are a form of borrowing, and has raised its ceiling for deficit spending.

From New York Times

Others point to a long-term lack of investment in infrastructure such as rail networks and high-speed internet as the government focused on balancing the budget under a 2009 constitutional amendment limiting deficit spending.

From Seattle Times

But the optimist often over-promised and couldn’t deliver, as when he vowed to “tear up the credit cards,” “end the crazy deficit spending” and “live within our means.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• budget deficit