domino theory

noun

1. a theory that if one country is taken over by an expansionist, especially Communist, neighbor, party, or the like, the nearby nations will be taken over one after another.

domino theory

1. The idea that if one key nation in a region fell to control of communists , others would follow like toppling dominoes. The theory was used by many American leaders to justify American intervention in the Vietnam War . ( See policy of containment .)

Word History and Origins

Origin of domino theory¹

First recorded in 1960–65

Example Sentences

So, yes, be wary of Greek dominos falling, but remember the domino theory was wrong during the Cold War yet it sowed fear.

From The Daily Beast

To make a brisk story very short, Pyle believes in the domino theory, and a wacko “Third Force.”

From The Daily Beast

The domino theory deception makes the claim that if one thing happens another will invariably follow.

From Project Gutenberg