ripple effect

noun

: a spreading, pervasive, and usually unintentional effect or influence
the automotive industry has a ripple effect on many other industries
compare domino effect

Examples of ripple effect in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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.
The announcement has caused ripple effects throughout the roster as Golden State had to waive fan favorite Kate Martin in a tight roster crunch, paving the way for athletic forward Laeticia Amihere to make the team. Nathan Canilao, Mercury News, 8 May 2026 The forecasts are raising alarms globally because of the pattern's powerful influence over the world's weather, and a strong event could create ripple effects for months to come. Dinah Voyles Pulver, USA Today, 8 May 2026 The loss of sea ice has wide ripple effects. Laura Paddison, CNN Money, 8 May 2026 When access to that training narrows, the ripple effects extend far beyond campuses. Lola W. Brabham, New York Daily News, 6 May 2026 See All Example Sentences for ripple effect

Word History

First Known Use

1966, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of ripple effect was in 1966

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Cite this Entry

“Ripple effect.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/ripple%20effect. Accessed 10 May. 2026.

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