cumulative effect
noun
: an effect produced by something happening over a long period of time
the cumulative effect(s) of smoking on the body
Examples of cumulative effect in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
However, the cumulative effect of numerous collective policies that change in multiple ways simultaneously may be devastating.
—
Scott A. Rivkees, Time, 6 May 2025
But to many legal scholars, the cumulative effect of these actions is a calculated effort to redefine who belongs—and who doesn’t—within America’s legal and political framework.
—Nik Popli, Time, 15 Apr. 2025
Most of Soderbergh’s choices aren’t consciously registered by the viewer, but their cumulative effect is impressive in its flawless evocation of classic Hollywood style.
—Jim Hemphill, IndieWire, 4 Apr. 2025
Even though the overall pace of food inflation has slowed, the cumulative effect of price increases over the past few years is still weighing on consumers.
—Matt Robison, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for cumulative effect
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.
Scott A. Rivkees, Time, 6 May 2025
But to many legal scholars, the cumulative effect of these actions is a calculated effort to redefine who belongs—and who doesn’t—within America’s legal and political framework.
—Nik Popli, Time, 15 Apr. 2025
Most of Soderbergh’s choices aren’t consciously registered by the viewer, but their cumulative effect is impressive in its flawless evocation of classic Hollywood style.
—Jim Hemphill, IndieWire, 4 Apr. 2025
Even though the overall pace of food inflation has slowed, the cumulative effect of price increases over the past few years is still weighing on consumers.
—Matt Robison, MSNBC Newsweek, 16 Apr. 2025
See All Example Sentences for cumulative effect
Cite this Entry
“Cumulative effect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/cumulative%20effect. Accessed 18 May. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share