I. ˈbüm verb
Etymology: Middle English bomben, bummen, of imitative origin
Date: 15th century
intransitive verb
1. : to make a deep hollow sound
2.
a. : to increase in importance, popularity, or esteem
b. : to experience a sudden rapid growth and expansion usually with an increase in prices
business was boom ing
c. : to develop rapidly in population and importance
California boom ed when gold was discovered there
d. : to increase greatly in size or number
the population boom ed
transitive verb
1. : to cause to resound — often used with out
his voice boom s out the lyrics
2. : to cause a rapid growth or increase of : boost
3. : to hit or kick forcefully
boom a punt
II. noun
Date: 15th century
1. : a booming sound or cry — often used interjectionally to indicate suddenness
then boom , he was fired
2. : a rapid expansion or increase: as
a. : a general movement in support of a candidate for office
b. : rapid settlement and development of a town or district
c. : a rapid widespread expansion of economic activity
d. : an upsurge in activity, interest, or popularity
a folk music boom
III. noun
Etymology: Dutch, tree, beam; akin to Old High German boum tree — more at beam
Date: 1627
1. : a long spar used to extend the foot of a sail
2.
a. : a chain or line of connected floating timbers extended across a river, lake, or harbor (as to obstruct passage or catch floating objects)
b. : a temporary floating barrier used to contain an oil spill
3.
a. : a long beam projecting from the mast of a derrick to support or guide cargo
b. : a long more or less horizontal supporting arm or brace (as for holding a microphone or for supporting an antenna)
4. : a spar or outrigger connecting the tail surfaces and the main supporting structure of an aircraft