escalate

American  

[es-kuh-leyt] / ˈɛs kəˌleɪt /

verb (used with or without object)

escalated, escalating

1. to increase in intensity, magnitude, etc..

   to escalate a war; a time when prices escalate.

   Synonyms:

   swell, mount, advance

   Antonyms:

   fall, decrease, lower

2. to raise, lower, rise, or descend on or as if on an escalator.

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escalate British  

/ ˈɛskəˌleɪt /

verb

1. to increase or be increased in extent, intensity, or magnitude

   to escalate a war

   prices escalated because of inflation

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Pronunciation

See percolate.

Other Word Forms

• escalation noun
• escalatory adjective
• nonescalating adjective
• nonescalatory adjective
• reescalate verb
• reescalation noun

Etymology

Origin of escalate

First recorded in 1920–25; back formation from escalator

Example Sentences

But crude benchmarks were struggling for direction on Monday, suggesting investors were shrugging off fears that the conflict in the Middle East could escalate amid reports of a potential peace plan.

From Barron's • Apr. 6, 2026

But he doubled down on his deadline — following up with a post warning Iran that attacks would escalate at 8 p.m.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 5, 2026

"There's danger that they will escalate situations or respond very aggressively in... tense situations," he said.

From BBC • Apr. 1, 2026

In a situation like this, if you have been failed by the local police, escalate the case to adult protective services and the district attorney’s office.

From MarketWatch • Mar. 30, 2026

“And you were trying to hurt their feelings. That’s the problem with stuff like this—everyone keeps trying to top one another, and then things escalate out of control.”

From "Auggie & Me" by R. J. Palacio

Related Words

• expand
• grow
• heighten
• intensify
• mount
• raise
• rise
• step up
• widen