1. a sudden shaking of the ground caused by movements in the earth’s crust
2. a major change or upheaval that affects many people
Usage: figurative

Examples

• The earthquake measured 6.5 on the Richter scale.
• Buildings collapsed during the powerful earthquake.
• Scientists study fault lines to predict earthquakes.
• The earthquake caused widespread damage to the city.
• Emergency crews responded quickly after the earthquake hit.
• The scandal was a political earthquake that changed everything.
• Her resignation created an earthquake in the company.