noun
aftershock
AF-turr-shawk
Aftershock (noun) means a smaller earthquake that follows a larger one in the same area. Example: “Several aftershocks rattled the city in the days after the quake.”
noun
1
A smaller earthquake that follows a larger one in the same area.
"Several aftershocks rattled the city in the days after the quake."
"Residents were warned to expect aftershocks."
2
A further, usually lesser, consequence following a major event.
"The layoffs were an aftershock of the earlier factory closure."
"The emotional aftershocks of the breakup lasted for months."
How to use aftershock
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishA follow-up tremor after an earthquake, or by extension any knock-on effect of a big event.
Easily confused with
Common pairings
strong aftershock
series of aftershocks
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Word forms
- Plural
- aftershocks
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
Several _____ rattled the city in the days after the quake.
Etymology
A compound of "after" + "shock."
Antonyms
Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “aftershock” mean?
The word “aftershock” means a smaller earthquake that follows a larger one in the same area. In plain terms, a follow-up tremor after an earthquake, or by extension any knock-on effect of a big event.
How do you pronounce “aftershock”?
“Aftershock” is pronounced AF-turr-shawk (/ˈæftɜɹʃɔk/ in IPA).
How do you use “aftershock” in a sentence?
Here is “aftershock” used in a sentence: “Several aftershocks rattled the city in the days after the quake.”
What is the opposite of “aftershock”?
The opposite of “aftershock” — its antonyms — is foreshock.
What part of speech is “aftershock”?
“Aftershock” is a noun.
How many meanings does “aftershock” have?
“Aftershock” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: a smaller earthquake that follows a larger one in the same area.
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