Definitions

domino effect

NOUN

cumulative effect from one event setting off a chain of events

Synonyms

WEAK

causal sequence cause and effect chain of events contagion effect domino theory knock-on knock-on effect ripple effect slippery slope

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.

As for changes to the EU itself, what's fascinating is that in 2016, after the UK's Brexit vote, there was widespread prediction of a "domino effect".

From BBC • Jun. 22, 2026

There are all these things that are a domino effect that you cannot predict.

From Los Angeles Times • Apr. 30, 2026

The selloff may have been exacerbated by a domino effect of investors trying to front-run selling their shares, in Gastwirth’s opinion.

From MarketWatch • Feb. 24, 2026

There is also a domino effect to estrangements.

From The Wall Street Journal • Feb. 11, 2026

If just one of them moved, I thought, the domino effect could engulf the three of us in an asphyxiating mass of literature.

From "Looking for Alaska" by John Green

domino effect

Example Sentences

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