earthquake

earth-quake · noun

imported

Definitions

noun

  1. 1.

    A sudden and violent shaking of the ground caused by movements within the earth's crust or volcanic action.

  2. 2.

    (Figurative) A major upheaval or disruption.

Forms

plural: earthquakes

Phrases & expressions

  • •
    Earthquake-proof — Designed to withstand earthquakes.
  • •
    Epicenter of an earthquake — The point on the earth's surface directly above the origin.

Related words

See also: earthquakes, tremor, tsunami, volcano
Synonyms: quake, seism, temblor, tremor

Etymology

A compound word from Old English eorþe meaning "earth" and Middle English quake meaning "to shake, tremble." The compound has been used since the 14th century.