What does earthquake mean?
An earthquake is a sudden and often violent shaking of the ground, caused by movements within the earth's crust or by volcanic activity, and frequently resulting in widespread destruction. The word combines "earth," from Old English, with "quake," an old word meaning to tremble or shake. Earthquakes are measured by their magnitude and described by their epicentre, and the term is a staple of seismology and news reporting alike. Beyond its literal scientific sense, "earthquake" has developed a figurative use: journalists and commentators speak of political earthquakes or earthquakes in public opinion to convey sudden, far-reaching upheaval. The word carries strong connotations of danger, unpredictability, and devastation, making it one of the most evocative terms in the vocabulary of natural disasters.
nounA sudden violent shaking of the ground, typically causing great destruction, resulting from movements within the earth's crust or volcanic action.
- A sudden violent shaking of the ground caused by movement within the earth's crust or volcanic activity.
- (Figurative) A momentous, disruptive event or upheaval in politics, society, or another sphere.
"The earthquake toppled buildings across the city and left thousands without power."
"The earthquake struck without warning, collapsing bridges and shattering windows for miles."
"The scandal sent an earthquake through the government, toppling two ministers within a week."
Regular plural formation; commonly used when discussing seismic activity in a region over time.
"Japan experiences thousands of minor earthquakes every year."
The largest earthquake ever recorded—the 1960 Valdivia quake in Chile—was so powerful it registered at magnitude 9.5 and sent tsunami waves crashing into Japan, over 17,000 kilometres away.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of earthquake
The word earthquake is formed from the English noun "earth" combined with "quake," a Middle English verb meaning to tremble or shake, itself derived from Old English "cwacian." As a compound it emerged naturally in Middle English and became fully established by the early modern period. It shares its first element with related formations such as "earthly" and "earthen," both built on the same Old English root "eorþe."
How earthquake is actually used
Primarily used in news and scientific reporting, where events are described by magnitude and epicentre; the word carries strongly negative connotations of destruction and loss. In figurative use it appears mostly in journalism and political commentary.
Easily confused with earthquake
"Quake" is a shortened, often more informal form of "earthquake" and can also mean any trembling movement, whereas "earthquake" specifically denotes a seismic event in the earth's crust.
A tremor is usually a smaller, less intense shaking of the ground, while an earthquake implies a significant seismic event.