1.   Annual deficits shrank steadily, both in actual dollars and as a percentage of the growing economy, though they did not disappear.

2.   As the economy grew over the years, the deficit would shrink as a proportion of the economy.

3.   A Commerce Department report showing the U.S. trade deficit shrank in February did little to help the dollar, since traders were looking for an even smaller gap.

4.   Council officials said future deficits would actually shrink under their plan.

5.   Cutting taxes will be easier next year because the deficit is shrinking.

6.   Gasoline prices have remained steady to lower, the economy has gained strength and the deficit has been shrinking to the point of almost vanishing.

7.   It was the third consecutive month the deficit shrank.

8.   Republicans say Congress can afford another round of tax cuts because the deficit is shrinking.

9.   Since Clinton took office, a lot occurred to make the deficit shrink.

10.   That sparked optimism the federal deficit may shrink and lead to reduced issuance of government debt.