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.
The deity is also linked to earthquakes, thunder, darkness, storms, and death and was widely regarded as the most powerful force of evil in Egyptian theology. Thomas G. Moukawsher, Newsweek, 5 Nov. 2024 The prospectus outlines the typical credit risks and also specific hazards including earthquakes in California, typhoons in Japan and European windstorms. Chris Dobstaff, Forbes, 31 Oct. 2024 On April 5, 2024, people across the East Coast of the United States experienced an unusual earthquake. Margherita Bassi, Smithsonian Magazine, 31 Oct. 2024 Not only does this tiny house look luxe, but the manufacturer says the homes are made with weather-resistant and rust-proof materials that can withstand winds of up to 72 miles per hour and up to level 9 earthquakes. Clint Davis, Better Homes & Gardens, 27 Oct. 2024 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

Dictionary Entries Near earthquake

Cite this Entry

“Earthquake.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/earthquake. Accessed 26 Nov. 2024.

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
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!