Definition

A large and sudden increase in support or opinion from a group of people, often seen in social or political contexts.

Example

The new policy was met with a groundswell of support from the community.

Conversation

Have you noticed the groundswell of support for that new community project?

Yeah, it's really amazing how many people are getting involved.

I think it's great to see such a positive groundswell in our neighborhood.

Absolutely! It shows how much we can achieve when we come together.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Groundswell is formed from "ground" (from Old English "grund", meaning the bottom or foundation) and "swell" (from Old English "swellan", meaning to grow or increase). The word describes a rising or increasing wave of support or opinion from the foundation of a community or group.

Memory Tip

Think of the 'ground' as the foundation and 'swell' as something that grows — a groundswell is like a wave of support that rises from the community's foundation.

Visually Confused Words