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.
Advertisement The ripple effect extends to the dedicated community providers who are the backbone of the HCBS ecosystem. Barbara Merrill, Time, 26 July 2025 At a meeting earlier this month, preservation board member Ray Breslin acknowledged concern that approving the demolition of 1800 Michigan Avenue could cause a ripple effect in Palm View, a neighborhood of charming Art Deco and Mediterranean Revival homes not far from Lincoln Road and City Hall. Ashley Miznazi, Miami Herald, 25 July 2025 Senate Bill 17, signed into law in 2023, forced colleges across the state to dismantle their diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) infrastructure — and the ripple effects are still unfolding. Tiffani Jackson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 24 July 2025 The ripple effect is shaping the entire industry pipeline. Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 22 July 2025 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 2 Aug. 2025.

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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