seismology

[sahyz-mol-uh-jee, sahys-]

noun

1. the science or study of earthquakes and their phenomena.

seismology

/ ˌsaɪzməˈlɒdʒɪk, saɪzˈmɒlədʒɪ /

noun

1. the branch of geology concerned with the study of earthquakes and seismic waves

seismology

1. The scientific study of earthquakes and of the internal structure of the Earth. It includes the study of the origin, geographic distribution, effects, and possible prediction of earthquakes.

seismology

1. The branch of science devoted to the study of seismic waves and the information they provide about the structure of the interior of the Earth.

Our knowledge of the properties of the crust, the mantle, and the core comes from this field.

Other Word Forms

• seismologic adjective
• seismological adjective
• seismologically adverb
• seismologist noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of seismology¹

First recorded in 1855–60; seismo- + -logy

Example Sentences

"For volcano seismology, it is extremely interesting to study these signals and wave types that arise when magma moves below the surface," explained Reiss.

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The Philippine seismology office has recorded more than 800 aftershocks since the first quake struck Mindanao, which is riddled by major faults.

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The earthquake ended up rupturing a much longer section of the fault than scientists expected, given the seismology of the region.

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Check out Unshaken, our guide to preparing for earthquakes and understanding seismology.

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Kostas Papazachos, a professor of seismology at the Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, told broadcaster ERT that the authorities had to allow for the situation to continue for most or all of February.

Read more on BBC