red ink

noun

1
: a business loss : deficit
2
: the condition of showing a business loss

Examples of red ink in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Looking back over the past quarter century, Boeing ranks sixth among the titans of red ink on the S&P 500. Jeremy Bogaisky, Forbes, 27 Jan. 2025 Conservatives in the House Freedom Caucus are demanding the effort by budget neutrality, arguing the country simply can’t afford to tack on additional deficits after years of fiscal red ink. Mike Lillis, The Hill, 11 Jan. 2025 Related Stories Unfortunately, Hank’s stubborn maintenance of his status quo has resulted in his accruing an ever-growing sea of red ink. Joe Leydon, Variety, 31 Jan. 2025 While losses in Reality Labs are expected to continue for the foreseeable future, the Street will be forgiving so long as the red ink is kept in check and profitability and cash flow remain top priorities. Paulina Likos, CNBC, 9 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for red ink 

Word History

Etymology

from the use of red ink in financial statements to indicate a loss

First Known Use

1926, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of red ink was in 1926

Dictionary Entries Near red ink

Cite this Entry

“Red ink.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/red%20ink. Accessed 19 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

red ink

noun
1
: a business loss
2
: the condition of showing a business loss
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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