The Open Dictionary

escalation

noun

UK/ˌes.kəˈleɪ.ʃᵊn/
US/ˌes.kəˈleɪ.ʃᵊn/

Definitions of escalation noun

  1. CountableUncountable

    A situation in which something increases in intensity or seriousness.

    • With the breakdown of negotiations, the conflict is at risk of escalation.

    • Company leaders worried that the recent customer complaints could lead to an escalation of negative publicity.

    • The price increases have resulted in an escalation of financial strain for many families.