earthquake earthquake /ˈɝːθˌkweɪk/

noun

1. () Shaking and vibration at the surface of the earth resulting from underground movement along a fault plane or from volcanic activity  ( seism , temblor , quake , earthquake )
   shaking and vibration at the surface of the earth resulting from underground movement along a fault plane or from volcanic activity
    The earthquake caused widespread destruction in the city
   The earthquake caused widespread destruction in the city
   
2. A disturbance that is extremely disruptive  ( earthquake )
   a disturbance that is extremely disruptive
    Selling the company caused an earthquake among the employees
   selling the company caused an earthquake among the employees