Logo
dictionary thesaurus

domino theory

noun

Definition of domino theory

1 : a theory that if one nation becomes Communist-controlled the neighboring nations will also become Communist-controlled
2 : the theory that if one act or event is allowed to take place a series of similar acts or events will follow

Examples of domino theory in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

 And didn’t the Cold War give rise to the Vietnam War, what with domino theory and all? — John D'anna, azcentral, "D'Anna: Imagining a world with no politics in Hollywood," 7 Mar. 2018

First Known Use of domino theory

1965, in the meaning defined at sense 1

History and Etymology for domino theory

from the fact that if dominoes are stood on end one slightly behind the other, a slight push on the first will topple the others

Keep scrolling for more

WORD OF THE DAY

expunge

play

See Definitions and Examples

Get Word of the Day daily email!