groundswell

noun

ground·​swell ˈgrau̇nd-ˌswel 

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

The groundswell, as Trimmer called it, began with the success of books like Sandling’s and, especially, with the rise of mudlarking social-media accounts in the twenty-tens. — Sam Knight, New Yorker, 17 July 2026

The league wants showcases like Griffey’s to be part of a groundswell of support that will eventually yield more talent. — Tyler Kepner, New York Times, 17 July 2026

Israeli polls are showing a groundswell of support for opposition parties, led by former Prime Minister Naftali Bennett and a popular centrist former military chief. — ABC News, 17 July 2026

In spite of the groundswell, the industry was able to push back on some of the more aggressive components of the data-center legislation. — Bloomberg, Mercury News, 15 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1786, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for groundswell

• barbell
• bedwell
• befell
• bluebell
• bombshell
• bridewell
• capelle
• cartel
• carvel
• clamshell
• cogswell
• compel

Kids Definition

ground swell

noun

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