What does moneymaker mean?
A moneymaker is a person, business, product, or other thing that produces money, usually in noticeable or repeated amounts. The term can flatter by implying profitability, but it can also carry the mild implication that success is measured chiefly by financial return. When referring to a person, it often suggests someone who has found a profitable line of work, investment, or enterprise; for a business or product, it means a dependable source of revenue. In everyday use, the word is more concrete and vivid than “profitable” and may suggest a business whose success is unusually clear. It can sound informal or mildly old-fashioned in some registers, especially where “money-spinner” is more natural. Although the expression is transparent, it is useful because it joins the idea of income with the idea of active production: a moneymaker does not merely possess wealth but makes or generates money. The word is therefore especially appropriate for reporting a profitable venture while retaining an everyday, slightly promotional tone.
A person who earns money, especially through profitable work, commerce, or investment.
"He became a moneymaker by identifying overlooked properties in the city."
Often approving, though it may reduce the person's success to financial results.
A business, product, investment, or other thing that produces substantial or dependable income.
"The app quickly proved to be a moneymaker for its developers."
Common in business and promotional contexts, with “money-spinner” serving as a frequent alternative.
The standard plural is “moneymakers.” The term is normally used as a count noun.
"Several small software products became unexpected moneymakers."
A moneymaker does not merely possess wealth—it actively makes money.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does moneymaker come from?
The word is a compound of money and maker, both of which are English formations. Money comes through Old French monoie from Latin moneta, while maker is an Old English formation related to make. The compound has long been used for both people who earn money and things that generate a profit.
Related word forms
How moneymaker is actually used
Informal and sometimes mildly old-fashioned, though still widely understood in British and American English. It can sound admiring or promotional, especially when describing a business or product; “money-spinner” is a common alternative.