Meaning & Origin
The term cash cow became popular through the Boston Consulting Group’s 1970s growth‑share matrix, likening a steady profit generator to a dairy cow that can be milked repeatedly.
Pronunciation Guide
Say it as CASH COW: /kæʃ kaʊ/.
Usage & Sentence Examples
- The iPhone turned into Apple’s biggest cash cow.
- Tourism is a cash cow for the region.
- Don’t neglect your cash cow while chasing new ideas.
Synonyms
- money‑maker
- profit generator
- golden goose
- revenue stream
- breadwinner