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Webster 1913 Edition

Earthquake

Earth′quakeˊ

,
Noun.
A shaking, trembling, or concussion of the earth, due to subterranean causes, often accompanied by a rumbling noise. The wave of shock sometimes traverses half a hemisphere, destroying cities and many thousand lives; – called also
earthdin
,
earthquave
, and
earthshock
.
Earthquake alarm
,
a bell signal constructed to operate on the theory that a few seconds before the occurrence of an earthquake the magnet temporarily loses its power.

Earth′quakeˊ

,
Adj.
Like, or characteristic of, an earthquake; loud; startling.
The
earthquake
voice of victory.
Byron.

Webster 1828 Edition

Earthquake

EARTH'QUAKE

,
Noun.
A shaking, trembling or concussion of the earth; sometimes a slight tremor; at other times a violent shaking or convulsion; at other times a rocking or heaving of the earth. Earthquakes are usually preceded by a rattling sound in the air, or by a subterraneous rumbling noise. Hence the name, earthdin, formerly given to an earthquake.

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