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seismic wave

seismic wave

Noun

pl: seismic waves

This term is a technical compound noun used primarily in geophysics and seismology. It describes the energy propagation resulting from a sudden release of stress in the Earth's lithosphere. While it is a scientific term, it is frequently used in news reporting to describe the physical mechanics of earthquakes.

In a figurative sense, the word "seismic" is often detached from "wave" to describe a shift or change that is sudden, massive, and transformative, such as a "seismic shift in politics." However, when paired as "seismic wave," the meaning remains strictly tied to geological phenomena.

Meanings

Nounseismic wave

An elastic wave in the earth produced by an earthquake or other sudden movement of the earth's crust.

The seismograph recorded a powerful seismic wave shortly after the tremor began.

Examples

A seismic wave travels through the earth after a fault slips.

Look at the monitor to see how the seismic wave is recorded.

School Life

The primary seismic wave arrives before the secondary one.

Trivia

I wonder if a seismic wave could trigger a landslide in this valley.

The city felt a massive seismic wave that shattered windows.

Can you explain the difference between a body seismic wave and a surface wave?

School Life

The sensor detected a faint seismic wave coming from the deep crust.

A powerful seismic wave ripped through the ground, throwing people off their feet.

Scientists use the speed of a seismic wave to map the interior of the planet.

Trivia

Last Updated: May 2026•Report an Error