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.
Imagine a transformative ripple effect that could create billionaires, bankrupt some of the biggest companies on the planet, and topple governments. Joseph Andrew, Forbes.com, 12 June 2026 Fried’s statement to the Herald comes amid warnings from a growing chorus of political leaders that Wasserman Schultz’s decision — and the state party’s silence about it — could have ripple effects across the ballot in November. Claire Heddles, Miami Herald, 11 June 2026 Rodney Barreto, co-chair of the host committee, highlighted the ripple effect on local services. Chelsea Jones, CBS News, 10 June 2026 Previous El Niño forecasts have been raising alarms globally because of the pattern's powerful influence over the world's weather, from worldwide heat to hurricanes, and a strong event could create ripple effects for months to come. Doyle Rice, USA Today, 8 June 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 16 Jun. 2026.

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