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Definition of earthquake

earthquake

/ˈɜːrθ.kweɪk/
earth · quake
Plural:earthquakes
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earthquake Lexical Profile

earthquake Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A sudden and violent shaking of the ground, sometimes causing great destruction, as a result of movements within the earth's crust or volcanic action.

Example

"Engineers designed the new bridge to withstand a major earthquake."

2

A great upheaval, disruption, or dramatic change in a social, political, or organizational system.

Example

"The sudden resignation of the prime minister caused a political earthquake across the country."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for earthquake

• Nearby Words

earthmover
earthmoving
earthnut pea
earthquake
earthrise
earthshaking
earthshattering

Word Origin & Etymology

Formed in Middle English around the late 13th century as 'eorthequakynge', combining Old English 'eorþe' (earth) and 'cwacian' (to shake or tremble), replacing the earlier Old English term 'eorðbifung'.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Earthquake. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/earthquake
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