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Definition of groundswell

groundswell

/ˈɡraʊndˌswɛl/
ground · swell
Plural:groundswells
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groundswell Lexical Profile

groundswell Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A rapid, spontaneous buildup of public opinion, political support, or popular sentiment.

Example

"A sudden groundswell of community support helped save the historic library from demolition."

2

A broad, deep undulation of ocean water often caused by a distant storm or seismic disturbance.

Example

"Even though the sky above the harbor was clear, a heavy groundswell rocked the anchored fishing boats."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Nearby Words

groundskeeper
groundsman
groundstroke
groundswell
groundwater
groundwork
groundworks

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 18th century as an open compound ('ground swell') from 'ground' (referring to the seabed) and 'swell' (a long, rolling ocean wave), before acquiring its figurative sense of a rising wave of public opinion in the early 19th century.

Cite this Entry

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