verb
escalate
ES-kuh-layt/ˈeskəleɪt/
To raise something to a higher level.
The fire escalates from a modest flame to a tall, vigorous blaze.
Etymology
From the moving staircase, escalate first meant to use an escalator. Physical ascent became figurative “raising,” initially in nuclear-war scenarios, giving the modern sense of increasing intensity, seriousness, or cost.
In context
One of the more infamous side effects of ACE inhibitors is a chronic dry cough, which in rare cases can escalate into coughing fits that disrupt sleep
More examples
- Repair costs escalated as workers discovered more damage.
- The agent escalates unresolved complaints to a supervisor.
- Both sides want to avoid escalating the conflict.
Forms
escalate · escalates · escalated · escalating
escalation noun — An increase in intensity, seriousness, or scope.
Similar words
- increase
- Increase is broader and need not suggest greater seriousness.
- intensify
- Intensify emphasizes greater strength rather than size or authority level.