What does seismogram mean?
A seismogram is the visual or printed record of vibrations detected by a seismograph. It shows seismic waves as a trace, allowing scientists to compare their arrival times, amplitudes, and frequencies at different locations. These measurements help identify an earthquake’s origin, estimate its distance, and indicate its magnitude and other characteristics. A single record may be called a seismogram, while the broader study of seismic waves and the instruments used to measure them is known as seismology. The word is most common in scientific and engineering contexts. It should not be confused with a seismograph, which is the instrument that detects and records the vibrations rather than the resulting data itself. In everyday discussion, “earthquake record” is a simpler alternative when a technical term is unnecessary.
nounA record produced by a seismograph, showing the vibrations caused by an earthquake or other seismic event. The record is typically displayed as a trace on a graph or chart.
- A graphical record of seismic vibrations obtained from a seismograph, especially during an earthquake.
"The seismogram revealed the precise times when the earthquake waves reached the monitoring station."
"The first seismogram was recorded a few minutes after the tremors began."
"Researchers compared the seismograms from stations around the region to locate the earthquake’s epicentre."
The plural is used for multiple recorded traces or documents.
"The researchers compared seismograms from stations across the region."
A seismogram is the earthquake’s signature: each wiggle records the arrival of a different wave through the Earth.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does seismogram come from?
The word combines the Greek-derived stem “seismo-,” associated with earthquakes and seismic movement, with “-gram,” meaning a written or recorded representation. Its formation follows the pattern of scientific terms such as seismology and seismograph, all of which use the same Greek roots relating to earthquakes and recording. The terminology developed alongside the systematic scientific study of seismic waves.
Related word forms
How seismogram is actually used
The term is technical and is most often used in seismology, geophysics, and earthquake engineering. In general writing, “earthquake record” is often more accessible.
Easily confused with seismogram
A seismograph is the instrument that detects and records seismic vibrations, whereas a seismogram is the resulting written record.