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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From embracing renewable energy sources to prioritizing local sourcing and educating future generations, this part of Ireland demonstrates that a shared commitment to sustainability can create a ripple effect throughout a community. Christopher Elliott, Forbes, 22 Feb. 2025 Our air quality is affected by nearby environmental factors, as well as ripple effects from thousands of miles away. Dan Perry, Newsweek, 19 Feb. 2025 But that wouldn’t necessarily be the case if the higher prices have ripple effects, raising inflation expectations and causing workers to demand higher wages and other businesses to raise prices, Weidner said. Paul Davidson, USA TODAY, 17 Feb. 2025 The ripple effect includes campus and student spending on goods, wages, housing and construction. Calmatters, The Mercury News, 12 Feb. 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 Feb. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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