1. very small earthquakes that are typically not felt by humans and can only be detected by sensitive instruments
Usage: geological term; plural form

Examples

• Scientists recorded hundreds of microquakes near the fault line last month.
• The seismograph detected microquakes that were too weak for residents to notice.
• Microquakes often occur before larger earthquakes as stress builds in the rock.
• Researchers use networks of sensors to monitor microquakes in volcanic regions.
• The mining operation triggered a series of microquakes in the surrounding area.
• Geologists study microquakes to better understand tectonic plate movement.