groundswell

noun

ground·​swell ˈgrau̇nd-ˌswel How to pronounce groundswell (audio)
1
usually ground swell : a broad deep undulation of the ocean caused by an often distant gale or seismic disturbance
2
: a rapid spontaneous growth (as of political opinion)
a groundswell of support

Examples of groundswell in a Sentence

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.
When the cheating scandal happened, there was a groundswell of support from fans, a protectiveness over Long as a woman and as a cultural touchstone. Zeba Blay, SELF, 21 Apr. 2026 The killings, which were captured in videos from the scene, led to a groundswell of outrage and massive protests across the country. Daniella Silva, NBC news, 16 Apr. 2026 As data centers expand their footprint, a groundswell of local opposition is following. Ella Nilsen, CNN Money, 12 Apr. 2026 The groundswell appeared to be organic, rather than an orchestrated campaign to pressure lawmakers to act. Stephen Groves, Fortune, 9 Apr. 2026 See All Example Sentences for groundswell

Word History

First Known Use

1786, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of groundswell was in 1786

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Groundswell.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/groundswell. Accessed 23 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

ground swell

noun
: a broad deep ocean swell caused by a distant storm or earthquake
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