trickle-down \¦ ̷ ̷ ̷ ̷ ¦ ̷ ̷ \adjective 1.: relating to or working on the principle of trickle-down theory < trickle-down economics > 2.: characterized by or being a derived often beneficial effect especially at a lower level (as in a hierarchy) < political success has had a trickle-down effect on the popularity of his books >