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



  1. A motor-driven mechanical device consisting of a continuous loop of steps that automatically conveys people from one floor to another.
  2. An upward or progressive course.
  3. An escalator clause.
    They agreed to a cost-of-living escalator.

See also

 
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