Definition
When the government spends more money than it has, requiring borrowing. A bipartisan favorite that both parties pretend to oppose while voting for it constantly.
Example Usage
Deficit spending exceeded $3 trillion in response to the pandemic.
Origin
From 'deficit' meaning shortfall, popularized in economic discourse during the 20th century
Fun Fact
Every president since 1969 has overseen deficit spending, yet everyone campaigns on balanced budgets
Source: Economic and budgeting terminology
Related Terms
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See “Deficit Spending” in Corporate Speak, Gen-Z Slang, Pirate Speak, and more.
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