domino effect


noun

the cumulative effect that results when one event precipitates a series of like events.
Also called domino reaction.

Origin of domino effect

First recorded in 1965–70

Example sentences from the Web for domino effect

British Dictionary definitions for domino effect

domino effect

noun

a series of similar or related events occurring as a direct and inevitable result of one initial event

Word Origin for domino effect

C20: alluding to a row of dominoes, each standing on end, all of which fall when one is pushed: originally used with reference to possible Communist takeovers of countries in SE Asia