seismology

UK: saɪzˈmɒlədʒi | US: saɪzˈmɑːlədʒi

Definition

  1. n. The scientific study of earthquakes and the propagation of elastic waves through the Earth.

Structure
seism <earthquake, from Greek *seismos*>o <connecting vowel>logy <study of, from Greek *-logia*>
Etymology

The word seismology combines the Greek seismos (meaning "earthquake" or "shaking") with -logia (denoting "the study of"). The connecting vowel -o- is typical in Greek-derived compound words. Historically, seismos stems from seiein ("to shake"), reflecting the violent motion of earthquakes. The suffix -logy is widely used in scientific disciplines (e.g., biology, geology), emphasizing systematic study. Thus, seismology literally means "the study of earthquakes."

Examples

  1. Modern seismology uses advanced sensors to detect tectonic activity.

  2. She pursued a degree in seismology to better understand earthquake prediction.

  3. The journal publishes groundbreaking research in seismology.

  4. Seismology helps engineers design earthquake-resistant buildings.

  5. His work in seismology earned him international recognition.