ripple effect

American  

noun

1. a spreading effect or series of consequences caused by a single action or event.

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ripple effect British  

noun

1. the repercussions of an event or situation experienced far beyond its immediate location

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Etymology

Origin of ripple effect

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

"Straight away that ripple effect begins - this is no longer just my business."

From BBC • Apr. 15, 2026

It may be tempting to write off the weakness as a ripple effect from non-traded BDCs, but concerns are warranted, the firm argued.

From Barron's • Apr. 7, 2026

This decrease in spending has a ripple effect because the American consumer accounts for about two-thirds of the U.S. economy.

From MarketWatch • Apr. 1, 2026

“I’m wondering whether this could cause a ripple effect in which other banks might do the same with my lesser-used credit cards.”

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 16, 2026

“I just want to complete my original mission. That ripple effect he’s so worried about”—he pointed at JB jeeringly—“pah! You won’t even feel it!”

From "Found" by Margaret Peterson Haddix