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

Europe’s far-right parties are on the rise, seemingly well positioned to ride a groundswell of anti-establishment sentiment into power in several countries in the next few years. — Alexander Smith, NBC news, 28 Sep. 2026

The groundswell of opposition may still not be enough to stop the project. — Alex Wigglesworth, Los Angeles Times, 27 Sep. 2026

And that’s where the groundswell of the past few weeks isn’t just another temporary dissipation of some angry energy. — Steven Zeitchik, HollywoodReporter, 25 Sep. 2026

Grant starts that particular groundswell early, after failing to sing an impressively low note and being eliminated in Round 1. — Tasha Robinson, Vulture, 22 Sep. 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