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

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

But experts say a major disruption to natural-gas production would have a ripple effect on agriculture.

From The Wall Street Journal • Mar. 20, 2026

The figures underscore that the economy was fragile even before the outbreak of Middle East conflict, which has caused a major energy shock that could have a ripple effect around the world.

From BBC • Mar. 13, 2026

"The ripple effect would simply be greater if I contest from Jhapa," he told AFP in January.

From Barron's • Feb. 19, 2026

Everyone’s space invaded everyone else's, and the ripple effect separated me from my brother.

From "The Rock and the River" by Kekla Magoon