chain reaction

noun

1

a

: a series of events so related to each other that each one initiates the next

b

: a number of events triggered by the same initial event

2

: a self-sustaining chemical or nuclear reaction yielding energy or products that cause further reactions of the same kind

chain-react

ˈchān-rē-ˈakt 

intransitive verb

Examples of chain reaction in a Sentence

Increased oil prices could trigger a chain reaction in the economy.

Recent Examples on the Web

That simple question set off a chain reaction that led to building Forbes.com as a separate, thriving digital entity. —Dr. Diane Hamilton, Forbes, 20 Nov. 2024

This decision set off a chain reaction, with subsequent drivers following suit, believing the lap to be an extra formation lap. —David Faris, Newsweek, 4 Nov. 2024

Ramsdale’s transfer could set off a chain reaction. —Phil Hay, The Athletic, 29 Aug. 2024

Freak accidents streak through the storylines with kinetic, electrifying energy, igniting a chain reaction of over-the-top kills that coincide under extreme circumstances. —Michael Lee Simpson, EW.com, 26 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1892, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

chain reaction

noun

1

: a series of events so related to each other that each one sets the next one going

2

: a chemical or nuclear reaction producing energy or products that cause further reactions of the same kind

Medical Definition

chain reaction

noun

: a self-sustaining chemical or nuclear reaction yielding energy or products that cause further reactions of the same kind