an improved word line boost circuit suitable for use on integrated circuits such as flash memory devices includes a two step boosting circuit with a floating circuit node . a first circuit provides an initial boost of the output voltage from a precharged voltage . part of the first circuit is floated , lessening a load on a second circuit . then , the second circuit provides a second boost of the output voltage with increased power efficiency . a time delay separates the onset of the second boosting operation from the onset of the first boosting operation so as to define a two - step boost .