earthquake

noun

earth·​quake ˈərth-ˌkwāk How to pronounce earthquake (audio)
1
: a shaking or trembling of the earth that is volcanic or tectonic in origin
2

Examples of earthquake in a Sentence

a building destroyed by earthquake the San Andreas Fault is notorious for its earthquakes
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Reports of earthquake felt away from source (red star) on February 14, 2025. Ian Dexter Palmer, Forbes, 21 Feb. 2025 This belief stems from their rare appearances near the surface or washing ashore often coinciding with natural disasters like earthquakes and tsunamis. Dan Perry, Newsweek, 19 Feb. 2025 It’s believed the oarfish were sent from the palace toward the surface to warn people of earthquakes. Anthony Robledo, USA TODAY, 19 Feb. 2025 Two small earthquakes rattled part of the Malibu area. Richard Winton, Los Angeles Times, 15 Feb. 2025 See All Example Sentences for earthquake

Word History

First Known Use

14th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of earthquake was in the 14th century

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Cite this Entry

“Earthquake.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/earthquake. Accessed 28 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

earthquake

noun
earth·​quake ˈərth-ˌkwāk How to pronounce earthquake (audio)
: a shaking or trembling of a portion of the earth

More from Merriam-Webster on earthquake

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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