groundswell

noun

ground·​swell ˈgrau̇nd-ˌswel 

1

usually ground swell : a broad deep undulation of the ocean caused by an often distant gale or seismic disturbance

2

: a rapid spontaneous growth (as of political opinion)

a groundswell of support

Examples of groundswell in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

His most recent appearance in court, on Friday, February 21 was met with a groundswell of support from his fans, who lined up for hours outside of the courtroom. —Russel Honoré, Newsweek, 5 Mar. 2025

For many Gulf Coast residents, the change was surprising, if not puzzling — the order was unexpected and not exactly responding to a groundswell. —Jennifer Reed, New York Times, 26 Feb. 2025

But in the nearly three months since the shooting, the groundswell of interest and support has been sustained. —Hurubie Meko, New York Times, 21 Feb. 2025

And if the party fails to grasp how deep the groundswell of support for younger leaders with a more coherent message against Trump, whispers of drafting primary challengers have already begun. —Katherine Fung, Newsweek, 10 Feb. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1786, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for groundswell

• barbell
• bedwell
• befell
• bluebell
• bombshell
• bridewell
• capelle
• cartel
• carvel
• clamshell
• cogswell
• compel

Kids Definition

ground swell

noun

: a broad deep ocean swell caused by a distant storm or earthquake