seismic

adjective

seis·​mic ˈsīz-mik 

ˈsīs-

1

: of, subject to, or caused by an earthquake

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

2

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

3

: having a strong or widespread impact : earthshaking

seismic social changes

seismically

ˈsīz-mi-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

Examples of seismic in a Sentence

Seismic social changes have occurred.

Recent Examples on the Web

Other analysts have warned that this seismic set of public offerings could signal the top of the market, and drew parallels with the late-1990s dot-com bubble. —Joseph Wilkins, CNBC, 29 May 2026

The advent of video podcasts has engendered seismic changes in how podcasts are consumed, most notably the consumption of podcasts previously tethered to the smartphone, but now comfortably ensconced in living rooms on smart TVS. —Frank Racioppi, Forbes.com, 27 May 2026

And what’s become clear is that it can’t be overstated what a seismic impact this loss will have on NASCAR and its future. —Jeff Gluck, New York Times, 27 May 2026

Capable of resisting earthquakes of magnitude 7 or above – a crucial feature given Taiwan's location on active tectonic plates – the Danjiang Bridge incorporates a complex seismic support system that manages forces that act on it in vertical and horizontal directions. —New Atlas, 27 May 2026

Word History

Etymology

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

First Known Use

1858, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing seismic

• seismic shift

Kids Definition

seismic

adjective

seis·​mic ˈsīz-mik 

ˈsīs-

: of, subject to, or caused by an earthquake or an earth vibration caused by something else (as an explosion)