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.
At the same time escalating tensions in the Middle East, with ongoing strikes between the Iran-backed Houthi rebels and Saudi Arabia, have pushed oil prices higher.
From MarketWatch ● Oct. 16, 2026
Port Lockroy faces escalating deterioration from age, climate change and environmental factors, said UKAHT.
From BBC ● Oct. 14, 2026
The Organization of the Petroleum Exporting Countries cut this year’s forecast for global oil-demand growth again, as escalating attacks on Gulf shipping and Houthi strikes on Saudi Arabia raise fresh risks to regional supplies.
From The Wall Street Journal ● Oct. 13, 2026
The negotiations follow months of rising tensions between the 27-nation EU and the Asian powerhouse that risk escalating into a full-blown trade war.
From Barron's ● Oct. 9, 2026
Usually, the bickering ran its course after a few minutes, but half an hour passed and not only was it still going on, it was escalating.
From "A Thousand Splendid Suns" by Khaled Hosseini
