Quake

/kweɪk/

Meaning & Definition

noun

a shaking or trembling of the earth, often caused by tectonic activity.

The recent quake disrupted services throughout the city.

a sudden shaking or trembling movement.

He felt a quake of excitement when he received the good news.

verb

to shake or tremble, usually as a result of an earthquake.

The ground began to quake violently during the earthquake.

to tremble or shudder, as from fear or excitement.

She felt her body quake with fear as she entered the dark room.

From Middle English 'quaken', from Old English 'cwacian', meaning 'to shake'.

earthquake

A sudden and violent shaking of the ground, often causing destruction.

quake in one's boots

To be very afraid or anxious.

quake with fear

To tremble or shake due to fear.

tremor

A slight shaking or vibrating movement.

seismic

Relating to or denoting geological phenomena such as earthquakes.

shaking

The act of moving back and forth violently.

Quake out

He totally quaked out during the horror movie.

Quake zone

That area is a quake zone; better be prepared.