aftershock

noun

af·​ter·​shock ˈaf-tər-ˌshäk How to pronounce aftershock (audio)
1
: an aftereffect of a distressing or traumatic event
2
: a minor shock following the main shock of an earthquake

Examples of aftershock in a Sentence

The first aftershock came just minutes after the earthquake.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
And the aftershocks still inform the framework of our economy, legal system and cultural memory. Sughnen Yongo, Forbes.com, 19 June 2025 Though, amazingly, the fatal scene was not considered a stunt because no stunt performers were involved, the aftershock had a profound effect on the profession. Thomas Doherty, HollywoodReporter, 14 June 2025 Two hours after that, at least 39 aftershocks of at least a 2.5 magnitude occured in the region, authorities said. Terry Collins, USA Today, 8 June 2025 The aftershocks will be felt in the Middle East and beyond. Sean Durns, The Washington Examiner, 6 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for aftershock

Word History

Etymology

after- + shock entry 1

First Known Use

1847, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of aftershock was in 1847

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Aftershock.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/aftershock. Accessed 11 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on aftershock

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!