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.
That evolution is causing a ripple effect across partner ecosystems, creating a slew of challenges for marketing leaders. Paul Tibbitt, Forbes.com, 30 June 2025 The ripple effect in the state economy could be profound, Anthony said. Scott Cohn, CNBC, 27 June 2025 In other words, aging might spread like a ripple effect across tissues. Lucy Notarantonio, MSNBC Newsweek, 26 June 2025 This is one of those ripple effects DeKnight talks about. EW.com, 26 June 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 11 Jul. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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