Seismic
/ˈsaɪzmɪk/
Definitions
2 meaningsRelating to or denoting geological phenomena caused by the sudden release of energy in the earth's lithosphere, such as earthquakes.
/ˈsaɪzmɪk/
Relating to earthquakes or other vibrations of the earth.
The seismic activity in the region is being closely monitored.
💡 Simply: Imagine the ground is rumbling and things are shaking! 'Seismic' describes anything connected to those types of shaking events, like earthquakes.
👶 For kids: Something that has to do with an earthquake or when the ground shakes.
More Examples
The engineers used seismic data to design the bridge.
Seismic waves travel through the Earth's crust.
How It's Used
"The country is located in a seismic zone."
"The building was designed to withstand seismic activity."
Figuratively, having a sudden, very great, or dramatic effect; of immense proportions.
/ˈsaɪzmɪk/
Having a sudden, very great, or dramatic effect.
The discovery of the new drug had a seismic impact on medicine.
💡 Simply: Sometimes 'seismic' is used to talk about huge changes, even if they're not earthquakes. It's like when something is so big it shakes everything up.
👶 For kids: Something that makes a big, big change, like when a big earthquake happens, but for ideas or events.
More Examples
The company's new strategy caused a seismic shift in their market share.
The news created a seismic wave of reaction.
How It's Used
"The acquisition was a seismic shift in the industry."
"The election results caused a seismic change in the political landscape."
Synonyms
From French *sismique*, from Greek *seismos* (earthquake).
Used in scientific contexts since the late 19th century, initially referring directly to earthquakes and their effects. Its metaphorical use, referring to major changes, is more recent.
Memory tip
Think of 'seismic' as anything that shakes the ground, like an earthquake.