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

Thermal runaway causes a chain reaction that dramatically raises the battery's temperature, quickly escalating the fire to uncontrollable levels. —Tim Bajarin, Forbes, 23 Jan. 2025

The invasion of Taiwan—an economic powerhouse where over 90 percent of the world's superconductors are produced—would set off a global chain reaction, explains Professor of Chinese Studies Kerry Brown in Why Taiwan Matters: A Short History of the Island That Will Dictate Our Future (St. Martin's). —Kerry Brown, Newsweek, 22 Jan. 2025

But applying high tariffs to all U.S. trading partners risks setting off a harmful chain reaction in Western economies, with rising costs, cratering demand, and a slowing of supply chain diversification. —Daniel H. Rosen, Foreign Affairs, 17 Dec. 2024

How a magazine disconnect works Pulling a trigger sets off a chain reaction inside a handgun. —Suzy Khimm, NBC News, 13 Dec. 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