Definition

A small earthquake that happens before a larger one, usually in the same area.

Example

The scientists recorded a foreshock before the major earthquake struck the region.

Conversation

Did you feel that little shake earlier?

Yeah, I thought it was just my imagination at first.

I read that it might have been a foreshock before something bigger.

I hope not! Those can be pretty scary.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Foreshock → It is formed from "fore-" (meaning before) and "shock" (from Old English "sceocca", meaning to shake or jolt). The word "foreshock" refers to a smaller earthquake that occurs before a larger seismic event, indicating a shaking that happens beforehand.

Memory Tip

Think of something that shakes or jolts ('shock') happening 'before' ('fore-') a bigger event — that's what a foreshock is.

Visually Confused Words