Meaning & Definition of word "Escalade"

Escalade

/ˌɛskəˈleɪd/

noun:

  • 1. A sudden increase or intensification of a conflict or situation.
    • Example: The escalation of violence in the region has drawn international concern.
  • 2. The act of climbing or scaling steep surfaces.
    • Example: Her love for escalade drove her to try the highest cliffs in the area.

verb:

  • 1. To increase or intensify, especially in relation to a conflict or situation.
    • Example: The political tensions began to escalate after the controversial decision was announced.
  • 2. To climb or scale, especially in reference to steep surfaces.
    • Example: The climbers decided to escalate the difficult ridge, testing their skills against the mountain.

Etymology

From French 'escalader', meaning to climb.

Common Phrases and Expressions

escalade the situation:

To make a situation more intense or severe.

military escalade:

The action taken to assault fortified positions.

Related Words

escalation:

The process of increasing or intensifying.

ascend:

To move upward.

Slang Meanings of escalade

Meaning: To increase dramatically.

Example Sentence: Things escalated quickly at the party.

Meaning: To raise the stakes in an argument.

Example Sentence: She escalated the discussion by bringing up past grievances.