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.
And Republicans and Democrats share responsibility for the government's ocean of red ink. Scott Horsley, NPR, 20 Dec. 2024 Obviously, painful cost-cutting and staff reductions, along with multiple increases in subscription prices, played a big role in reversing the sea of red ink at Disney streaming. Josef Adalian, Vulture, 19 Dec. 2024 Journaling using a red ink pen, per her therapist’s recommendation, was also critical for her, Megan said — the emotional release from seeing blood on her arms was replaced by the symbolic release of her pain onto the pages. Kristen Rogers, CNN, 30 Oct. 2024 Allergic reactions to the pigments, especially red inks, have already been documented. Ars Technica, 28 Feb. 2024 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 2 Jan. 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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