domino effect

noun

1. the cumulative effect that results when one event precipitates a series of like events.

domino effect

noun

1. a series of similar or related events occurring as a direct and inevitable result of one initial event

Word History and Origins

Origin of domino effect¹

First recorded in 1965–70

Word History and Origins

Origin of domino effect¹

C20: alluding to a row of dominoes, each standing on end, all of which fall when one is pushed: originally used with reference to possible Communist takeovers of countries in SE Asia