escalate
verb (used with or without object)
to increase in intensity, magnitude, etc..
escalating
-
present participleof escalate.present participle
A verb form that is used in progressive verb constructions and may also function as a modifier or a gerund.
Example Sentences
Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.
Ben Glickman and Oyin Adedoyin examine the escalating friction between premium card issuers and the points fanatics testing their limits.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 25, 2026
Around 550,000 people took part in last weekend's demonstrations against rising fuel prices and the cost of living, with frustrations escalating after weeks of student protests.
From BBC ● Oct. 24, 2026
Seoul's military said Pyongyang was attempting to shift the blame for escalating military tensions, while confirming the use of loudspeakers and warning shots as "legitimate defensive measures".
From Barron's ● Oct. 22, 2026
Since its premiere last week and subsequent successful box office, awards season buzz has been escalating around the film, Fielder and co-director Lance Oppenheim.
From Los Angeles Times ● Oct. 21, 2026
He was afraid of escalating tensions with the Soviet and Chinese Communists by increased bombing.
From "Boots on the Ground: America's War in Vietnam" by Elizabeth Partridge
