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

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

If these feelings of loneliness persist and Gen Z continues to feel disconnected from their communities, there could be ripple effects on everything from civic engagement to mental health crises, according to Driscoll. —

Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 6 Dec. 2024 The ripple effects of industry downturns extend beyond the workplace, stirring financial anxieties and personal uncertainties. —

Benjamin Laker, Forbes, 5 Dec. 2024 The ripple effect of this activity is being felt across the broader cryptocurrency market, with rising optimism and increasing valuations as investors eye further price gains. —

Vinamrata Chaturvedi, Quartz, 2 Dec. 2024 The ripple effects of this plan extend beyond the federal workforce itself. —

Gleb Tsipursky, Sun Sentinel, 1 Dec. 2024 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

See more words from the same year

Cite this Entry

Style

“Ripple effect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ripple%20effect. Accessed 17 Dec. 2024.

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