noun
Uncommon
escalation
ehs-kuh-LAY-shuhn
Escalation (noun) means a rapid increase in the size, intensity, or seriousness of something. Example: “The escalation of violence alarmed the entire region.”
noun
1
A rapid increase in the size, intensity, or seriousness of something.
"The escalation of violence alarmed the entire region."
2
The act of passing a problem to someone with greater authority to resolve it.
"After the second complaint, the case triggered an automatic escalation to management."
How to use escalation
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA rise in how serious, intense, or urgent something has become.
Common pairings
escalation of tensions
risk of escalation
de-escalation
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Word forms
- Plural
- escalations
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The _____ of violence alarmed the entire region.
Etymology
From "escalate" plus the noun-forming suffix -ion.
Antonyms
de-escalation
Rhymes for escalation
region
ablation
allusion
emulsion
ideation
novation
diffusion
elocution
extension
oxidation
perfusion
selection
See all rhymes for escalation →
Frequently asked questions
What does “escalation” mean?
The word “escalation” means a rapid increase in the size, intensity, or seriousness of something. In plain terms, a rise in how serious, intense, or urgent something has become.
How do you pronounce “escalation”?
“Escalation” is pronounced ehs-kuh-LAY-shuhn (/ˌɛs.kəˈleɪ.ʃən/ in IPA).
How do you use “escalation” in a sentence?
Here is “escalation” used in a sentence: “The escalation of violence alarmed the entire region.”
What is the opposite of “escalation”?
The opposite of “escalation” — its antonyms — is de-escalation.
What part of speech is “escalation”?
“Escalation” is a noun.
Is “escalation” a common word?
“Escalation” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “escalation” have?
“Escalation” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a rapid increase in the size, intensity, or seriousness of something.
