Aftershock: meaning, definitions and examples
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aftershock
[ ˈæftərˌʃɑk ]
geological event
An aftershock is a smaller earthquake that follows a larger earthquake, known as the main shock. These secondary tremors usually occur in the same general area as the primary quake and can continue for days, weeks, or even months. Aftershocks help to relieve stress in the Earth's crust, which is caused by the main shock. They can vary in magnitude and can sometimes be strong enough to cause additional damage to structures already weakened by the main quake.
Synonyms
Examples of usage
- The region experienced several aftershocks over the next few weeks.
- Residents were on edge due to the frequent aftershocks.
- Emergency services were deployed to assess damage after the aftershocks.
- Scientists monitored aftershocks to understand the seismic activity better.
Translations
Translations of the word "aftershock" in other languages:
🇵🇹 réplica
🇮🇳 पश्चात्प्रभाव
🇩🇪 Nachbeben
🇮🇩 gempa susulan
🇺🇦 післяшок
🇵🇱 wstrząs wtórny
🇯🇵 余震
🇫🇷 réplique
🇪🇸 réplica
🇹🇷 artçı sarsıntı
🇰🇷 여진
🇸🇦 هزة ارتدادية
🇨🇿 otřes
🇸🇰 otrias
🇨🇳 余震
🇸🇮 potres
🇮🇸 eftirkraftur
🇰🇿 қайталама
🇬🇪 გადასვლა
🇦🇿 təkrarlanan zəlzələ
🇲🇽 réplica
Etymology
The term 'aftershock' was coined in the early 20th century to describe the residual seismic activity that follows a major earthquake event. The prefix 'after-' indicates the sequence that follows the primary event, while 'shock' refers to the sudden and violent disturbances of the Earth's crust. The concept has its roots in seismology, which is the scientific study of earthquakes and the propagation of elastic waves through the Earth. Initially, the characterization of aftershocks was primarily observational, but advancements in technology and seismic monitoring have allowed for more precise definitions and measurements in the contemporary context. This evolution of the term reflects both the understanding of seismic events and the increasing ability to track and analyze them.