1. past tense of escalate; increased in intensity, extent, or severity
2. past tense of escalate; moved up step by step, as on an escalator
Usage: less common

Examples

• The argument escalated into a shouting match.
• Tensions escalated between the two countries.
• The conflict escalated rapidly over the weekend.
• Prices escalated due to increased demand.
• The situation escalated beyond anyone’s control.
• The protest escalated when police arrived.
• Medical costs have escalated dramatically this year.