earthquake

/ˈɜːθkweɪk/noun

A sudden trembling of the ground caused by shifts along faults in the earth or by volcanic activity.

Example sentences

“The earthquake rattled windows across the city but caused little damage.”
“After the earthquake, many families slept outside in case of aftershocks.”

Reported by magnitude: 'a magnitude 6 earthquake'. Figuratively, a 'political earthquake' labels a shocking upset.

Synonyms for earthquake

quake
tremor

Related words

wildlifeAnimals living free in nature, especially mammals, birds, and fish, rather than kept by people.floodA large amount of water spreading over land that is normally dry, often after heavy rain and usually causing damage.meadowAn open area of grassy land, often grown so the grass can be cut for hay.droughtA long stretch of time with far less rain than normal, worse and longer than an ordinary dry spell.waterfallWater pouring down over the edge of a steep drop or cliff.humidHolding a noticeable amount of moisture; damp, especially describing air or weather.