Simple Definition of aftershock

from our Learner's Dictionary

aftershock

noun

ˈæftɚˌʃɑːk

British ˈɑːftəˌʃɒk

plural aftershocks

: a smaller earthquake that occurs after a larger one

The first aftershock came just minutes after the earthquake.

—often used figuratively

He still suffers from the aftershocks of being laid off.

Cite this Entry

Style

“Aftershock.” Merriam-Webster.com Simple Definition, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/simple/aftershock. Accessed 20 Jun. 2026.

Copy Citation

More from Merriam-Webster

Word of the Day

longueur

Listen to the pronunciation of longueur

See Definitions and Examples »

Get Word of the Day daily email!

Popular in Grammar & Usage

'Canceled' or 'cancelled'?

5 Verbal Slip Ups and Language Mistakes

Is that lie 'bald-faced' or 'bold-faced'?

'A' or 'an'? What about before 'h'? An Indefinite Article Guide

The Difference Between 'i.e.' and 'e.g.'

Popular in Wordplay

One-Word Oxymorons: Bittersweet, Spendthrift, and More

8 Obscure Words for Sleepy Times

Cattywampus, Taradiddle, and More Funny-Sounding Words

The Words of the Week - Jun 19

12 Lovely and Unusual Words for the Natural World

Popular

'Canceled' or 'cancelled'?

One-Word Oxymorons: Bittersweet, Spendthrift, and More

8 Obscure Words for Sleepy Times