First Known Use: 15th century
Dictionary
1boom
verb \ˈbüm\
: to make a deep and loud sound
: to say (something) in a deep and loud voice
of a business or industry : to grow or expand suddenly
Full Definition of BOOM
intransitive verb
1
: to make a deep hollow sound
2
a : to increase in importance, popularity, or esteem b : to experience a sudden rapid growth and expansion usually with an increase in prices <business was booming> c : to develop rapidly in population and importance <California boomed when gold was discovered there> d : to increase greatly in size or number <the population boomed>
transitive verb
1
: to cause to resound —often used with out <his voice booms out the lyrics>
2
: to cause a rapid growth or increase of : boost
3
: to hit or kick forcefully <boom a punt>
See boom defined for English-language learners
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Origin of BOOM
Middle English bomben, bummen, of imitative origin
Related to BOOM
2boom
noun
Definition of BOOM
1
: a booming sound or cry —often used interjectionally to indicate suddenness <then boom, he was fired>
2
: a rapid expansion or increase: as a : a general movement in support of a candidate for office b : rapid settlement and development of a town or district c : a rapid widespread expansion of economic activity d : an upsurge in activity, interest, or popularity <a folk music boom>
First Known Use of BOOM
15th century
3boom
noun
Definition of BOOM
1
: a long spar used to extend the foot of a sail
2
a : a chain or line of connected floating timbers extended across a river, lake, or harbor (as to obstruct passage or catch floating objects) b : a temporary floating barrier used to contain an oil spill
3
a : a long beam projecting from the mast of a derrick to support or guide cargo b : a long more or less horizontal supporting arm or brace (as for holding a microphone)
4
: a spar or outrigger connecting the tail surfaces and the main supporting structure of an aircraft
Origin of BOOM
Dutch, tree, beam; akin to Old High German boum tree — more at beam
First Known Use: 1627
BOOM Defined for Kids
1boom
verb \ˈbüm\
boomedboom·ing
Definition of BOOM for Kids
1
: to make a deep, hollow, and loud sound <The cannon boomed.>
2
: to increase or develop rapidly <Business boomed last year.>
2boom
noun
Definition of BOOM for Kids
1
: a deep, hollow, and loud sound
2
: a rapid increase in activity or popularity <a sales boom>
3boom
noun
Definition of BOOM for Kids
1
: a long pole attached to the bottom of a sail
2
: a long beam sticking out from the mast of a derrick to support or guide something that is being lifted
3
: a long pole for holding a microphone
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