domino effect

noun

plural domino effects

: a cumulative effect produced when one event initiates a succession of similar events compare ripple effect

Examples of domino effect in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

This can create a domino effect as the airport tries to shuffle assignments around to accommodate all flights as quickly as possible. —Iona Brannon, Travel + Leisure, 27 Feb. 2026

There’s been a domino effect since which has left them without an available and match fit right-back of sufficient quality for long periods. —James Pearce, New York Times, 26 Feb. 2026

Chefs and restaurant managers tend to be excellent at adapting to challenges on the fly, but one difficult table can start a domino effect that leads to negative experiences for other diners. —Henri Hollis, AJC.com, 13 Feb. 2026

When one grant is halted, there is a domino effect on others, both nationally and internationally. —David Seal, STAT, 3 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1924, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for domino effect

• affect
• aspect
• bedecked
• bisect
• collect
• connect
• correct
• deflect
• detect
• direct
• dissect
• eject