U.S. [This and its verb (BOOM v.3) have arisen recently [19th c.] in U.S.: it is not clear whether the vb. is from the sb., or conversely. The actual origin is also a matter of conjecture; probably, it consisted in a particular application of BOOM sb.1 and its vb., with reference not so much to the sound, as to the suddenness and rush, with which it is accompanied. Cf. esp. BOOM v.1 1 c., and 2. But association, original or subsequent, with other senses of BOOM, is also possible, and the actual use of the word has not been regulated by any distinct etymological feeling, so that no derivation will account for all its applications.]
1. A start of commercial activity, as when a new book, the shares of a commercial undertaking, or the like ‘go off’ with a ‘boom’; a rapid advance in prices; a sudden bound of activity in any business or speculation.
1879. Lumberman’s Gaz., 19 Dec. There has not been the boom upon lumber experienced in many other articles of merchandise.
1880. World, 3 Nov., 5. The election of the American President is expected to be followed by a ‘boom’ that will take up prices.
1884. St. James’s Gaz., 26 Jan., 4/1. With the revival of prosperity in the United States the great boom in railway properties set in.
1884. Times, 28 Nov., 4/5. Building ‘Boom’ in the United States.
1886. Marston, Frank’s Ranche, 36. One railroad spoils a town, two bring it to par again, and three make a ‘boom.’
2. The effective launching of anything with éclat upon the market, or upon public attention; an impetus given to any movement, or enterprise; the vigorous ‘running’ or writing-up of a candidate for an election; a vigorously worked movement in favor of a candidate or ‘cause.’
1879. Sala, in Daily Tel., 26 Dec. The Grant ‘Boom’ may be succeeded by the Sherman ‘Boom.’
1884. Reading Morn. Herald, 15 April. Blaine’s book was issued … just at the critical moment in his boom for the Presidency.
1884. Lisbon (Dakota) Star, 10 Oct. How Electioneering Booms are Worked Up by the Faithful.
