Epicentre Meaning and Definition
Epicentre
Pronunciation
/ɛpɪˈsɛntər/
Part of Speech
Noun
Definition
A point on the Earth’s surface, beneath the Earth’s surface, or in the Earth’s crust, that is located directly above the point where an earthquake originates.
Examples
- The epicentre of the earthquake was located in a remote region.
- The scientists studied the epicentre of the tremor to understand its cause.
Synonyms
- Focus
- Centre
Antonyms
- Periphery
- Edge
Etymology
The word “epicentre” comes from the Greek words “epi” meaning “at” or “upon” and “kentron” meaning “centre”. It was first used in the 18th century to describe the point of origin of an earthquake.
Usage Notes
Epicentre can be used in both scientific and everyday contexts. It is often used in seismology and geography to describe the location of an earthquake or volcanic eruption.
Cultural References
The term “epicentre” has been referenced in various forms of media, including literature, film, and television. For example, in the movie “Geostorm”, the epicentre of a storm is a key plot point.
Idiomatic Expressions or Phrases
- “At the epicentre of the action” means being at the centre of the excitement or activity.
Related Words or Phrases
- Seismic
- Tremor
Collocations
- at the epicentre
- of the epicentre
Frequency of Use
Epicentre is a relatively rare word in everyday language, but its usage has increased in recent years due to its application in various fields such as science, technology, and media.
Common Misspellings
- Ecocentre
- Episenter