seismic

seis·mic

adj \ˈsīz-mik, ˈsīs-\

Definition of SEISMIC

1

: of, subject to, or caused by an earthquake; also : of or relating to an earth vibration caused by something else (as an explosion or the impact of a meteorite)

2

: of or relating to a vibration on a celestial body (as the moon) comparable to a seismic event on earth

3

: having a strong or widespread impact : earthshaking <seismic social changes>

— seis·mi·cal·ly \-mi-k(ə-)lē\ adverb

Examples of SEISMIC

1. Seismic social changes have occurred.

Origin of SEISMIC

Greek seismos shock, earthquake, from seiein to shake; probably akin to Avestan thwaēshō fear

First Known Use: 1858

Other Geology Terms

anthracite, boulder, cwm, erratic, igneous, intrusive, mesa, sedimentary, silt, swale