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escalator

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noun es·ca·la·tor \ ˈe-skə-ˌlā-tər , nonstandard -skyə- \

Definition of escalator

1 a :a power-driven set of stairs arranged like an endless belt that ascend or descend continuously
b :an upward course suggestive of an escalator
  • a never-stopping escalator of economic progress
  • —D. W. Brogan
2 :an escalator clause or provision

See escalator defined for English-language learners

See escalator defined for kids

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Recent Examples of escalator from the Web

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'escalator.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

Origin and Etymology of escalator

from Escalator, a trademark

2

escalator

adjective

Definition of escalator

:providing for a periodic proportional upward or downward adjustment (as of prices or wages)
  • an escalator arrangement tying the base pay … to living costs
  • —N. Y. Times

First Known Use of escalator

1930

ESCALATOR Defined for English Language Learners

escalator

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noun

Definition of escalator for English Language Learners

  • : a moving set of stairs that carries people up or down from one level of a building to another

ESCALATOR Defined for Kids

escalator

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noun es·ca·la·tor \ ˈe-skə-ˌlā-tər \

Definition of escalator for Students

:a moving stairway for going from one level (as of a building) to another

Learn More about escalator

  1. See words that rhyme with escalator Spanish Central: Translation of escalator Nglish: Translation of escalator for Spanish speakers Britannica English: Translation of escalator for Arabic speakers Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about escalator

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