WordGarden.ioripple
C2Pronunciation
UK
- /rˈɪpəl/
US
- /ˈrɪpəl/
Meanings
Noun
a small wave or series of small waves on water or another surface
a spreading effect or series of consequences from one event
Verb
to move in small waves or make small waves on a surface
to spread outward through something in a series of effects or reactions
Beyond the definition
Imagine dropping a pebble into still water - the small waves that move outward are ripples. But "ripple" is not just about water. It can also describe how an event or idea spreads and has a widening effect, like kindness moving through a community. A good deed can spread outward, inspiring others to do good as well.
The word suggests gentle movement and gradual spread. You might see ripples in fabric, hear ripples of laughter, or feel the ripples of excitement before a big event. Think of it as something small starting somewhere and growing outward, touching everything around it.
A ripple is most literally a series of small waves on the surface of water, created when something disturbs it - a dropped pebble, a swimming fish, even a gentle breeze. These waves spread outward in expanding circles, gradually losing energy as they travel. "The pond was covered in ripples after the frog jumped in."
However, "ripple" extends far beyond just water. It's often used metaphorically to describe how an event or idea spreads and has a widening effect over time. A small act of kindness can ripple through a community, inspiring others to be generous. A political decision might ripple across international markets. This suggests that even seemingly insignificant actions can have far-reaching consequences.
You'll often hear it used in phrases like "a ripple effect," which specifically describes this chain reaction where one event sets off a series of related events. For example, "The new law had a ripple effect on the local economy."
Beyond effects and waves, "ripple" can also describe a subtle texture or pattern. You might see ripples in sand dunes, or feel the ripple of fabric as it moves. It suggests a gentle undulation or wave-like form.
So whether you're watching water, tracing the consequences of an action, or describing a textured surface, "ripple" captures the idea of something small starting somewhere and spreading outward, creating a widening impact.
Examples
- 1
Water surface
A light breeze rippled the surface of the lake.
- 2
Water movement
Small ripples spread out from where the stone hit the water.
- 3
Fabric movement
The curtains rippled gently in the open window.
- 4
Group reaction
Laughter rippled through the classroom after his comment.
- Patternripple through + group
spread gradually through it
More examplesFewer examples
- 5
Supply chain
The price increase rippled through the whole supply chain.
- Patternripple through + connected system
affect many connected parts
- 6
Project impact
One mistake at the start can have a ripple effect on the entire project.
- Phraseripple effect
one event causing a series of other results
- 7
Industry reaction
News of the merger sent ripples through the industry.
See also
Forms and spellings
4 forms open this card.
Main spelling
- ripplenounverb
Forms
- ripplespluralnounverb
- rippling-ing formverbnoun
- rippledpast tenseverbnoun