Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

foreshock

noun

/ˈfɔːrʃɒk/

Definition

A smaller earthquake that precedes a larger earthquake.

Examples

Seismologists recorded a foreshock that occurred 30 minutes before the main earthquake.
The residents were alerted by the foreshock, which led them to evacuate before the larger tremor hit.
Historically, foreshocks have given geologists insight into the behavior of fault lines.

Meaning

Foreshocks are often seen as warning signs of a bigger seismic event, providing valuable information about the potential for a major earthquake in the vicinity.