ripple effect

noun

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

ripple effect

noun

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of ripple effect¹

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

“That is going to lead to higher labor costs, so now it’s going to be more expensive to produce, and that is going to create a ripple effect that is also going to affect their demand for U.S.–born workers,” she said.

From Slate

“Forever Celebrated” will show the ripple effect of those whose loss permanently affects our lives.

From Los Angeles Times

Merced County Sheriff Vernon Warnke said the agricultural equipment thefts have a ripple effect that eventually reaches Americans who shop at local stores.

From Los Angeles Times

But that also means "its actions definitely have a big ripple effect online", he says - a ripple effect firms like Tricia Fox's are starting to really feel.

From BBC

Those might seem like meager numbers for a player widely expected to be selected in the NFL draft this spring until you consider the ripple effect.

From Los Angeles Times