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

The energy in the Garden felt seismic, trembly. —Amanda Petrusich, New Yorker, 21 May 2026

The first two goals by Montreal saw a huge reaction by hometown hockey fans with strong seismic reactions. —Dominic Patten, Deadline, 19 May 2026

Could something as seismic be on the table this summer? —Jace Frederick, Twin Cities, 19 May 2026

For now, all permutations go through Makerfield and that result could have a seismic impact. —ABC News, 16 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)