escalation
UK: ˌɛskəˈleɪʃən | US: ˌɛskəˈleɪʃən
n. a rapid increase or intensification, especially in conflict or severity
n. the process of rising or increasing gradually (e.g., prices, tensions)
The word "escalation" derives from the Latin scala (ladder), which evolved into the French escalade (to climb). The verb "escalate" emerged in the early 20th century, originally describing climbing via a ladder or escalator (itself from scala). By the 1950s, it gained metaphorical use for conflicts or tensions "climbing" in intensity. The suffix -ation nominalizes the process, solidifying its modern meaning of progressive increase.
The escalation of violence in the region alarmed international observers.
Price escalation due to inflation has strained household budgets.
Diplomats worked to prevent further escalation of the dispute.
The conflict reached a dangerous escalation after the border incident.
Rapid escalation in demand led to shortages of essential goods.