es·ca·la·tor
ˈe-skə-ˌlā-tər 
nonstandard
-skyə-
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
D. W. Brogan2
: an escalator clause or provision
: providing for a periodic proportional upward or downward adjustment (as of prices or wages)
an escalator arrangement tying the base pay … to living costs—New York Times
New York TimesExamples of escalator in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Anthony D'alessandro, Deadline, 15 Oct. 2025
Situated near the Mall’s main entrance, by the JW Marriott and in close proximity to mobility scooter rentals, escalators and elevators, it is meant to be an exhibit that is accessible to individuals and groups.
—Molly Guthrey, Twin Cities, 14 Oct. 2025
Trolley Dances makes the point that dance can happen anywhere, around an outdoor fountain, on a café tabletop, and even on an escalator within a public library.
—Marcia Luttrell, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 Oct. 2025
How escalators are designed Escalators are moving staircases powered by chains and gears.
—Majd Al-Waheidi, NPR, 26 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for escalator
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.
Noun
The show followed George Jetson, corporate suit dad, in future world of flying cars, high-rises and moving sidewalk escalators.
—Anthony D'alessandro, Deadline, 15 Oct. 2025
Situated near the Mall’s main entrance, by the JW Marriott and in close proximity to mobility scooter rentals, escalators and elevators, it is meant to be an exhibit that is accessible to individuals and groups.
—Molly Guthrey, Twin Cities, 14 Oct. 2025
Trolley Dances makes the point that dance can happen anywhere, around an outdoor fountain, on a café tabletop, and even on an escalator within a public library.
—Marcia Luttrell, San Diego Union-Tribune, 12 Oct. 2025
How escalators are designed Escalators are moving staircases powered by chains and gears.
—Majd Al-Waheidi, NPR, 26 Sep. 2025
See All Example Sentences for escalator
Cite this Entry
“Escalator.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/escalator. Accessed 28 Oct. 2025.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share