Synonyms

cash flow

American

noun

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 British

noun

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

"Collins English Dictionary — Complete & Unabridged" 2012 Digital Edition © William Collins Sons & Co. Ltd. 1979, 1986 © HarperCollins Publishers 1998, 2000, 2003, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2009, 2012

Etymology

Origin of cash flow

First recorded in 1950–55

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

Anand Kini, finance and operating chief, said last year’s results demonstrate the underlying strength and durability of Versant’s business, citing strong profitability, margins and cash flow.

From The Wall Street Journal

These funds directly contributed to positive operating cash flow and demonstrate effective financial management of digital asset holdings.

From Los Angeles Times

They tend to be more predictable to the extent they invest in value stocks and companies with higher free cash flow, high dividend payout ratios, and low asset-turnover ratios.

From Barron's

The downgrade reflects competitive pressures across the media sector and continued free cash flow headwinds from significant transformation costs, Fitch said.

From The Wall Street Journal

Some examples: Stretching for a higher home price based on quick appreciation, using a large adjustable mortgage to fund renovations, buying a vacation or rental property, or financing extra vehicles that strain cash flow.

From MarketWatch

Definitions and idiom definitions from Dictionary.com Unabridged, based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2023