escalator

escalator
    n 1: 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) [syn: {escalator clause}, {escalator}]
    2: a stairway whose steps move continuously on a circulating
       belt [syn: {escalator}, {moving staircase}, {moving
       stairway}]
    

Escalator \Es"ca*la`tor\, n. [NL. Cf. {Escalade}.]
   A stairway or incline arranged like an endless belt so that
   the steps or treads ascend or descend continuously, and one
   stepping upon it is carried up or down; -- originally a trade
   term, which has become the generic name for such devices.
   Such devices are in common use in large retail establishments
   such as department stores, and in public buildings having a
   heavy traffic of persons between adjacent floors.
   [Webster 1913 Suppl. +PJC]