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cascade
This term evokes a visual image of fluid, descending motion. In a physical sense, it describes the graceful, tiered fall of water or fabric, suggesting a rhythmic and continuous downward flow rather than a single abrupt drop.
In organizational or systemic contexts, it describes a top-down transmission. Whether referring to a chain reaction of failures or the dissemination of corporate goals, the word implies a sequential trigger where one level inevitably activates the next.
Meanings
A process in which one event triggers a sequence of similar events, often leading to a cumulative effect.
The bank failure triggered a cascade of financial crises across the region.
A small waterfall, typically one that flows over a series of rocky steps.
The hikers stopped to admire the mountain cascade.
Examples
The sudden bankruptcy caused a cascade of failures throughout the industry.
The garden features a beautiful stone cascade that feeds into a pond.
The molten lava began to cascade down the side of the volcano.
The stylist decided to cascade the curls over her shoulder.
Phrasal Verbs
cascade down
to flow or fall downward in a series of stages
The golden sunlight cascaded down the mountain slopes.