domino effect

American  

noun

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

---

domino effect British  

noun

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

---

Etymology

Origin of domino effect

First recorded in 1965–70

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.

From Barron's

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.

From Barron's

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

From BBC

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

From Los Angeles Times

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

From Los Angeles Times