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

When a quake occurs, aftershocks are often a possibility. —Josh Hammer, Newsweek, 15 Feb. 2025

Authorities warned that aftershocks and other jolts may still arrive, so residents should stay in a safe place. —Anthony Trotter, ABC News, 13 Jan. 2025

Topline At least 95 people were killed after a powerful earthquake struck near one of Tibet’s holiest cities on Tuesday morning, with multiple aftershocks being reported in other parts of Western China and neighboring Nepal, Chinese state media reported. —Siladitya Ray, Forbes, 7 Jan. 2025

In Dallas, in front of a crowd still reeling from the Luka Doncic trade aftershocks, against a team without seven of its best players, Golden State’s fourth-quarter comeback came up short. —Danny Emerman, The Mercury News, 13 Feb. 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