ripple effect

noun

: a spreading, pervasive, and usually unintentional effect or influence
the automotive industry has a ripple effect on many other industries
compare domino effect

Examples of ripple effect in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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When leadership is vague the ripple effect spreads quickly. Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes.com, 23 Apr. 2025 When nonprofits struggle, the ripple effects are immediate and widespread. Kelly Anoe, Chicago Tribune, 20 Apr. 2025 The displacement crisis triggered by the January wildfires in Los Angeles has led to ripple effects across the entire housing sector. Nicholas Creel, MSNBC Newsweek, 18 Apr. 2025 Though the hiring freeze was lifted, and a federal judge ruled the workers were unlawfully terminated and ordered they be offered their jobs back, the chaos has caused a ripple effect that means staffing issues continue and may affect park services across the country. Carole Rosenblat, CNN Money, 16 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for ripple effect

Word History

First Known Use

1966, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ripple effect was in 1966

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Cite this Entry

“Ripple effect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ripple%20effect. Accessed 27 Apr. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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