killing
n. countable B1 Intermediate Oxford US //ˈkɪɫɪŋ// UK //kˈɪlɪŋ// killing
n. a large and sudden profit from a business deal or investment. You use this when someone makes a lot of money very quickly.
n. a sudden and substantial financial profit, typically achieved through a single transaction or investment. Informal in register; often used in the phrase 'make a killing'.
He made a killing on the stock market last year.
The tech startup's founders made a killing when the company was acquired by a global conglomerate.
While most investors were cautious during the market dip, those who bought early made a killing once the recovery began in earnest.
From Middle English kyllyng; equivalent to kill + -ing.
Usage
Commonly used in the idiomatic expression 'to make a killing'.