seismic

adjective

seis·​mic ˈsīz-mik 

ˈsīs-

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

seismically

ˈsīz-mi-k(ə-)lē 

adverb

Examples of seismic in a Sentence

Seismic social changes have occurred.

Recent Examples on the Web

Even activities that come before drilling, like seismic surveys used in prospecting, pose an imminent risk to wildlife, the lawsuit argues. —Karen Zraick, New York Times, 19 Feb. 2025

Two seismic weapons in the arsenal of enterprise futurists that completely redefine how enterprises operate and deliver value are the rise of the digital experience economy and the acceleration of data monetization. —Sudhanshu Duggal, Forbes, 19 Feb. 2025

That window ends after the 2026 season when the Offensive Rookie of the Year becomes eligible for a seismic contract extension. —Ben Standig, The Athletic, 19 Feb. 2025

Rather than the steady, slow flow scientists expected, the ice quivered with tiny seismic disturbances. —Ella Jeffries, Smithsonian Magazine, 18 Feb. 2025

Word History

Etymology

Greek seismos shock, earthquake, from seiein to shake; probably akin to Avestan thwaēshō fear

First Known Use

1858, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing seismic

• seismic shift

Kids 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)