1
: of, subject to, or caused by an earthquake
also
: of or relating to an earth vibration caused by something else (such as an explosion or the impact of a meteorite)
2
: of or relating to a vibration on a celestial body (such as the moon) comparable to a seismic event on earth
3
: having a strong or widespread impact : earthshaking
seismic social changes
Examples of seismic in a Sentence
Seismic social changes have occurred.
Recent Examples on the Web
Maduro’s capture is a seismic reversal of fortune for Cuba’s communist-run government, which for decades has relied on massive aid packages from its oil-rich South American ally for the island’s very survival.
—
Patrick Oppmann, CNN Money, 5 Jan. 2026
The amphitheater and bandshell on the south side of the pier are not as old as the bridge, but also need replacement in keeping with modern seismic and accessibility standards.
—Phil Diehl, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 Jan. 2026
Rayner’s shows played out against a constant, dark backdrop of war, racial conflict and seismic social change.
—Michael Peregrine, Chicago Tribune, 2 Jan. 2026
This would be a seismic change in the world’s social dynamics, regardless of which country gets there first.
—James Vincent, Harpers Magazine, 30 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for seismic
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.
Patrick Oppmann, CNN Money, 5 Jan. 2026
The amphitheater and bandshell on the south side of the pier are not as old as the bridge, but also need replacement in keeping with modern seismic and accessibility standards.
—Phil Diehl, San Diego Union-Tribune, 4 Jan. 2026
Rayner’s shows played out against a constant, dark backdrop of war, racial conflict and seismic social change.
—Michael Peregrine, Chicago Tribune, 2 Jan. 2026
This would be a seismic change in the world’s social dynamics, regardless of which country gets there first.
—James Vincent, Harpers Magazine, 30 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for seismic
Cite this Entry
“Seismic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/seismic. Accessed 6 Jan. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
seismic
adjective
seis·mic
ˈsīz-mik 
ˈsīs-
: of, subject to, or caused by an earthquake or an earth vibration caused by something else (as an explosion)
Love words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share