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

One section failed, which caused a chain reaction that knocked down all seven stories. —Tom Ignudo, CBS News, 17 Apr. 2026

The turning point comes when Austin and Ashley witness a violent confrontation between Josh and Lindsay — a moment that sets off a chain reaction of manipulation, shifting loyalties and mounting tension within the country club. —Ryan Brennan, Sacbee.com, 16 Apr. 2026

Hacegaba noted that the rerouting of ships to avoid the conflict zone is setting off a chain reaction resulting in longer routes, further amplifying the cost increases. —Glenn Taylor, Footwear News, 16 Apr. 2026

This phenomenon is a self-accelerating chain reaction wherein a battery enters an uncontrollable heating state. —New Atlas, 15 Apr. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1892, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Rhymes for chain reaction

• abstraction
• attraction
• compaction
• contraction
• detraction
• diffraction
• distraction
• exaction
• extraction
• impaction
• inaction
• infraction

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