Earthquake

/ˈɜːrθ.kweɪk/

Meaning & Definition

noun

A sudden and violent shaking of the ground, often caused by movements of the Earth's tectonic plates.

The earthquake shook the city, causing widespread panic among the residents.

A series of seismic waves resulting from the shifting of the Earth's crust.

Scientists recorded the earthquake on their seismographs, noting its intensity and duration.

A significant event that may lead to destruction of buildings and loss of life.

After the earthquake, emergency services were deployed to assist those affected.

Figuratively, a major disturbance or upheaval in a situation or organization.

The political earthquake following the election reshaped the country's future.

From earth + quake, where 'quake' means to shake.

aftershock

A smaller earthquake that follows the main shock.

earthquake zone

A region that is prone to earthquakes.

to cause an earthquake

To create a significant disturbance that leads to seismic activity.

seismology

The study of earthquakes and the movement of waves through the Earth.

fault line

A fracture or zone of fractures between two blocks of rock.

tremor

A small or minor earthquake.

The big shake.

That was one intense big shake!

Shake-up

It was a total shake-up when the quake hit.