Ripple: meaning, definitions and examples

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ripple

[ˈrɪpəl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

on water

A small wave or series of waves on the surface of water, especially as caused by a slight breeze or an object dropping into it.

Synonyms

rippling, undulation, wavelet.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ripple	A small wave or series of waves on the surface of water or any liquid caused by a slight disturbance. Often used to describe a gentle and continuous impact. She noticed a ripple on the surface of the pond
wavelet	A small wave, typically one of several or many. Used to describe the tiniest forms of waves, often on the surface of water. Less commonly used in everyday language. Tiny wavelets spread out from where the pebble hit the water
undulation	A smooth, wavelike motion. Used in more formal or scientific contexts to describe larger or more complex wave motions, not limited to liquids. The undulation of the whale's body as it swam was mesmerizing
rippling	Describes the motion of forming small waves or the effect caused by such motion. Often used to describe the ongoing process or visual appearance caused by ripples. The wind moved across the field, rippling the tall grass

Examples of usage

The pebbles made ripples in the pond.
The wind caused ripples on the lake's surface.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

effect

A thing that forms a small wave or series of waves.

Synonyms

consequence, effect, impact.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ripple	Used to describe a small wave or slight movement, often used metaphorically to indicate a minor influence or reaction that spreads out slowly from a point of origin. The news of the scandal caused ripples throughout the community Her kind words sent ripples of hope through the room
effect	Describes a change that results when something is done or happens. It's a general term that can describe both positive and negative outcomes. The new law had an immediate effect on the economy The medication's side effects were unexpected
impact	Used to refer to a strong, often sudden influence or force. It has a more intense and significant connotation compared to 'effect' and 'consequence'. The hurricane had a devastating impact on the coastal towns Her speech had a profound impact on the audience
consequence	Refers to a result or outcome, typically of an action or decision. It is often used in a cause-and-effect context, sometimes with a slightly negative connotation if the outcome is undesired. He didn't study for the exam, and the consequence was that he failed Every decision we make has a consequence, good or bad

Examples of usage

The news sent ripples through the community.
Her actions created ripples in the company.

^{Context #3 | Verb}

spread

To spread through or across a surface or area.

Synonyms

extend, propagate, spread.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
ripple	Ideal for describing small waves or minor disturbances moving through water, air, or other media. Often used metaphorically to denote a subtle effect or influence spreading outwards. The pebble caused ripples in the pond. Her kind words sent ripples of happiness through the crowd.
spread	Commonly used to describe the general action of something moving outwards to cover a larger area. Appropriate for physical dissemination, abstract ideas, or even contagion. The fire spread quickly through the forest. The news of their engagement spread like wildfire.
extend	Used when talking about making something longer or larger in terms of space, time, or scope. Suitable for both physical and abstract contexts. We need to extend the deadline for this project. The company plans to extend its operations to new markets.
propagate	Often used in a scientific or technical context to discuss how something, like waves, ideas, or plants, spreads or grows. It can also be used to talk about the dissemination of information or beliefs. Radio waves propagate through the atmosphere. The group worked to propagate their ideas across the community.

Examples of usage

The laughter rippled through the crowd.
Her smile rippled across her face.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word comes from the Middle English 'ripl', which means to 'curl' or 'writhe'.
It is related to the word 'rip', which suggests a tearing or a movement that disturbs a surface.

Science

Ripples in water are caused by disturbances, such as objects falling in or wind blowing across the surface.
In physics, the concept of waves covers ripples and can be applied to sound waves and light waves as well.
The behavior of ripples can demonstrate principles of energy transfer, showing how energy moves through different mediums.

Literature

Ripples often symbolize change or the effect of actions in stories, resembling how a small act can have wide-reaching consequences.
In poetry, ripples can evoke feelings of calmness or chaos, depending on the context and imagery used.

Pop Culture

Ripples are often depicted in films and songs to signify moments of introspection or emotional development.
The term 'ripple effect' is commonly used in sociology and business to describe how one event can influence many others.

Nature

Ripples can be observed in nature not only in water but also in sand or the air, where disturbances create patterns.
Some animals, like certain fish, create ripples when moving through water, indicating their presence to predators and prey.

Translations

Translations of the word "ripple" in other languages:

🇵🇹 ondulação

🇮🇳 लहर

🇩🇪 Welle

🇮🇩 riakan

🇺🇦 рябь

🇵🇱 falowanie

🇯🇵 波紋

🇫🇷 ondulation

🇪🇸 ondulación

🇹🇷 dalgalanma

🇰🇷 파동

🇸🇦 تموج

🇨🇿 vlnění

🇸🇰 vlnenie

🇨🇳 涟漪

🇸🇮 valovanje

🇮🇸 bylgja

🇰🇿 толқын

🇬🇪 ტალღა

🇦🇿 dalğa

🇲🇽 ondulación

Word Frequency Rank

At position #13,614, this word is part of sophisticated English vocabulary. It's useful for academic or professional contexts where precise language is needed.

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13612 confessions
13613 parsley
13614 ripple
13615 unanimity
13616 shivering
13617 chef
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