boom
1. boom \'bu:m\ n [D, tree, beam; akin to OHG boum tree - more at BEAM] 1:
a long spar used variously to extend the foot of a sail or facilitate ha
ndling of cargo or mooring 2a: a long beam projecting from the mast of a
derrick to support or guide a n object to be lifted or swung 2b: a long
movable arm used to manipulate a microphone 3: a line of connected
floating timbers across a river or enclosing an area of water to keep
sawlogs together; also : the enclosed logs 4: a chain cable or line of
spars extended across a river or the mouth of a harbor to defend it by
obstructing navigation 5: a spar or outrigger connecting the tail surfaces
and the main supporting structure of an airplane
2. boom vb [imit.] 1: to make a deep hollow sound 2a: to increase in
esteem or importance 2b: to experience a sudden rapid growth and expansion
usu. with an increas e in prices 2c: to develop rapidly in population and
importance 1: to cause to resound 2: to cause a rapid growth or increase
of : BOOST
3. boom n 1: a booming sound or cry 2: a rapid expansion or increase as
2a: a general movement in support of a candidate for office 2b: rapid
settlement and development of a town or district 2c: a rapid widespread
expansion of economic activity