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

Example Sentences

According to the Soufan Center think tank, "if Mali falls, there could be a domino effect with other governments in the region, including in Burkina Faso and/or Niger", two other countries led by juntas.

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Understanding of tipping points has improved since the last report, its authors said, allowing for greater confidence in estimating when one might spark a domino effect of catastrophic and often irreversible disasters.

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“Our dad introduced us to the pole vault. We just fell in love with it - a kind of domino effect.”

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Uncertainty around Najee Harris’ return still looms, creating a domino effect in the running back room.

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Texas State’s move would trigger a domino effect, with the Sun Belt looking toward Conference USA for a replacement.

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