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.
There is a key rotation issue to be settled that could have a ripple effect into the bullpen. Evan Grant, Dallas Morning News, 19 Feb. 2026 And the ripple effects of even small changes start with one person, one action, one commitment to move upstream. Literary Hub, 18 Feb. 2026 Were this to complete, the ripple effects would be felt in all corners. Max Goldbart, Deadline, 17 Feb. 2026 Yet testimony from the wounded students put the focus instead on the harrowing moments of the attack itself – and the ripple effects of its aftermath. Eric Levenson, CNN Money, 17 Feb. 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 23 Feb. 2026.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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