Aftershock - Meaning, Definition & English Examples
An aftershock is a smaller earthquake that occurs after a larger seismic event, in the same area. It happens as the Earth’s crust adjusts to the changes caused by the main quake.
Definition:
A smaller earthquake following the main shock, often causing additional damage or distress.
Synonyms:
aftereffect, repercussion, consequence
Part of Speech:
noun
Antonyms:
foreshock, mainshock
Common Collocations:
major aftershock, strong aftershock, aftershock sequence, aftershock zone
Derivatives:
aftershocked, aftershocking
Usage Tips:
Use "aftershock" to describe secondary tremors after an earthquake or metaphorically for lingering effects of an event.
Common Phrases:
feel the aftershock, aftershock of the quake, emotional aftershock
Etymology:
Derived from "after" + "shock," first used in seismology in the early 20th century.
Examples:
- 1. The aftershock rattled the buildings again.
- 2. People feared another aftershock after the big earthquake.
- 3. The emotional aftershock of the accident lasted weeks.
- 4. Scientists monitored the aftershocks closely for safety.