Escalator
WordNet
noun
(1) A stairway whose steps move continuously on a circulating belt
(2) A clause in a contract that provides for an increase or a decrease in wages or prices or benefits etc. depending on certain conditions (as a change in the cost of living index)
WiktionaryText
English
Etymology
From created by American inventor Charles Seeberger in 1900, from + + , which forms nouns of agency. Formerly a trademark. See: Escalator:Etymology. Broader usage may be influenced by For an alternative etymology, see Online Etymology Dictionary.
Noun
- A motor-driven mechanical device consisting of a continuous loop of steps that automatically conveys people from one floor to another.
- An upward or progressive course.
- An escalator clause.
- They agreed to a cost-of-living escalator.
See also
- movator
- moving pavement, moving sidewalk
- moving ramp
- moving walkway
- stairway
- step
- travelator