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Seismometer: meaning, definitions and examples

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seismometer

 

[ ˈsaɪz.məˌtɪər ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

scientific instrument

A seismometer is an instrument used to detect and record the vibrations caused by seismic waves during an earthquake. It measures the motion of the ground both vertically and horizontally, enabling scientists to analyze the intensity and duration of seismic activity.

Synonyms

earthquake sensor, quake meter, seismograph

Examples of usage

  • The seismometer detected the earthquake seconds before it hit.
  • Scientists analyzed the data from the seismometer to assess the earthquake's magnitude.
  • Seismometers are essential tools in studying tectonic movements.

Translations

Translations of the word "seismometer" in other languages:

🇵🇹 sismómetro

🇮🇳 भूकंपमापी

🇩🇪 Seismometer

🇮🇩 seismometer

🇺🇦 сейсмометр

🇵🇱 sejsmograf

🇯🇵 地震計

🇫🇷 sismomètre

🇪🇸 sismómetro

🇹🇷 sismometre

🇰🇷 지진계

🇸🇦 جهاز قياس الزلازل

🇨🇿 seismometr

🇸🇰 seizmometer

🇨🇳 地震仪

🇸🇮 seizmometer

🇮🇸 skjálftamælir

🇰🇿 зерттеу сейсмометры

🇬🇪 სეისმომეტრი

🇦🇿 sismometr

🇲🇽 sismómetro

Etymology

The term 'seismometer' derives from the Greek words 'seismos', meaning 'earthquake', and 'metron', meaning 'measure'. The concept of measuring seismic activity dates back to ancient civilizations, but the first modern seismometer was developed in the late 19th century. The first successful instrument for measuring seismic waves was built in 1880 by the Italian seismologist Giovanni Omori. Over the years, seismometers have evolved significantly due to advancements in technology, allowing for more accurate and sensitive measurements. Today, digital seismometers are commonly used in seismology, providing real-time data and improving our understanding of earthquakes and tectonic processes.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #35,384, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.