aftershock

noun

af·​ter·​shock ˈaf-tər-ˌshäk 

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

Typically, experts assess the historical frequency of seismic activity, analyze geological records for evidence of past ruptures, examine the relationship between smaller and larger earthquakes, and study aftershock patterns. —Jenny Lehmann, Discover Magazine, 5 Mar. 2025

One clear aftershock is that the Loper case, which struck down Chevron, has already begun reshaping how courts approach administrative regulations while prompting businesses and industries to reassess their strategies for compliance and self-regulation. —Eric Reicin, Forbes, 14 Jan. 2025

Several aftershocks were felt in Malibu, USGS data shows. —Michelle Watson, CNN, 9 Mar. 2025

Russia lost the Crimean War, but the aftershocks can still be felt today. —James Verini, The New Yorker, 1 Mar. 2025

Word History

Etymology

after- + shock entry 1

First Known Use

1847, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for aftershock

• antiknock
• arawak
• hollyhock
• interlock
• isopach
• manioc
• shuttlecock
• tomahawk
• weathercock
• alcock
• beanstalk
• bedrock