aftershock

noun

af·​ter·​shock ˈaf-tər-ˌshäk How to pronounce aftershock (audio)
1
: an aftereffect of a distressing or traumatic event
2
: a minor shock following the main shock of an earthquake

Examples of aftershock in a Sentence

The first aftershock came just minutes after the earthquake.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
In my view there are several aftershocks to watch for. Mike O'Sullivan, Forbes.com, 1 Aug. 2025 Now warnings are being downgraded in most areas, though advisories remain in place as more aftershocks are possible. Audrey McAvoy, Chicago Tribune, 30 July 2025 Dozens more aftershocks above 5 magnitude also struck the region in the hours immediately afterwards. Lex Harvey, CNN Money, 30 July 2025 More than 150 earthquakes and aftershocks with magnitudes ranging from 3.0 to 5.7 have been reported since Tuesday afternoon. Los Angeles Times, 9 July 2025 See All Example Sentences for aftershock

Word History

Etymology

after- + shock entry 1

First Known Use

1847, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of aftershock was in 1847

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Cite this Entry

“Aftershock.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/aftershock. Accessed 7 Aug. 2025.

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