noun Uncommon

Richter

RIHKT-uh

Richter (noun) means used (followed by a number) to state the magnitude of an earthquake on the Richter scale. Example: “The tremor measured 4.2 on the Richter scale.”

noun

Used (followed by a number) to state the magnitude of an earthquake on the Richter scale.

"The tremor measured 4.2 on the Richter scale."

How to use Richter

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe scale used to describe how strong an earthquake is.

Common mistake

Seismologists now generally use the moment magnitude scale instead, but "Richter scale" is still the term most people use in everyday speech.

Common pairings

Richter scale measured on the Richter scale

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The tremor measured 4.2 on the _____ scale.

Etymology

Named after American seismologist Charles F. Richter, who co-developed the scale in the 1930s.

· First attested 1930

Class of 1930 Richter joined the language around 1930.

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Frequently asked questions

What does “Richter” mean?

The word “Richter” means used (followed by a number) to state the magnitude of an earthquake on the Richter scale. In plain terms, the scale used to describe how strong an earthquake is.

How do you pronounce “Richter”?

“Richter” is pronounced RIHKT-uh (/ˈɹɪkt.ɚ/ in IPA).

How do you use “Richter” in a sentence?

Here is “Richter” used in a sentence: “The tremor measured 4.2 on the Richter scale.”

What part of speech is “Richter”?

“Richter” is a noun.

Where does the word “Richter” come from?

The word “Richter” dates back to around 1930. Named after American seismologist Charles F. Richter, who co-developed the scale in the 1930s.

Is “Richter” a common word?

“Richter” is an uncommon word in modern English.