domino effect

American  

noun

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

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domino effect British  

noun

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

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Etymology

Origin of domino effect

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

That letter had caused a domino effect of events that pitted Regan against me in a simulation test that just so happened to also be testing for compatibility for the partner program.

From Literature

The selloff may have been exacerbated by a domino effect of investors trying to front-run selling their shares, in Gastwirth’s opinion.

From MarketWatch

There is also a domino effect to estrangements.

From The Wall Street Journal

The raid’s domino effect has raised concerns about the welfare of children in affected households.

From Los Angeles Times

Tricolor Holdings filed for bankruptcy in September, coming under a cloud of suspicion about its business practices and sparking fears of a domino effect on banks.

From MarketWatch