groundswell

noun

ground·​swell ˈgrau̇nd-ˌswel How to pronounce groundswell (audio)
1
usually ground swell : a broad deep undulation of the ocean caused by an often distant gale or seismic disturbance
2
: a rapid spontaneous growth (as of political opinion)
a groundswell of support

Examples of groundswell in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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With so many resources already available on communication skills, to what does Fisher attribute such a groundswell of response? Rodger Dean Duncan, Forbes, 18 Mar. 2025 The shocking defeat of Bashar al-Assad’s regime by rebel groups led by Hayat Tahrir al-Sham prompted a groundswell of domestic and international optimism. Jesse Marks, Foreign Affairs, 11 Feb. 2025 Already, a groundswell of experts and coalitions is emerging to inform the rebuild – each with their own ideas about how best to do it, taking into account climate resilience, energy efficiency, and quality of life. Francine Kiefer, The Christian Science Monitor, 10 Feb. 2025 His most recent appearance in court, on Friday, February 21 was met with a groundswell of support from his fans, who lined up for hours outside of the courtroom. Russel Honoré, Newsweek, 5 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for groundswell

Word History

First Known Use

1786, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of groundswell was in 1786

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Cite this Entry

“Groundswell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/groundswell. Accessed 28 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

ground swell

noun
: a broad deep ocean swell caused by a distant storm or earthquake
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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