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.
"It is widely acknowledged that police should be looking at behavioural patterns across incidents and seeking to identify where repeat offending might indicate escalating risk. That clearly did not happen in this case."
From BBC ● Sep. 8, 2026
The last week has been marked by escalating exchanges of fire between the two sides.
From Salon ● Sep. 3, 2026
Despite the risks that escalating the trade war poses to Canada, which is heavily dependent on exports to its southern neighbor, Carney can boast of broad support.
From Barron's ● Sep. 1, 2026
We’ve examined how both countries are escalating long-range drone and missile strikes.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Aug. 27, 2026
It says that the tropical storm is moving faster than anyone has really expected, and that it’s quickly escalating.
From "Hurricane Child" by Kheryn Callender
