Laxi Dictionary

American Dictionary

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Definition escalate in American English

escalate verb

verb
/ˈeskəˌleɪt/
1

to become much worse or more serious, or to make something do this

Example

The tension escalated until it became unbearable.

Example

Rebel forces have escalated the fighting.

Example

Any one of these border disputes could escalate into war.

Synonyms and related words
worsen compound escalate worsen decline deteriorate
Example

an effort to control escalating costs

Synonyms and related words
increase add to raise
Definition escalate in American English