epicenter
EP-ih-sen-ter
/ˈɛpɪsɛntər/
The point on the Earth's surface vertically above the focus of an earthquake; or the focal point of an activity.
Distinguishes the surface location directly above an underground seismic rupture point.
The story behind the word. Coined in the late 19th century by Irish seismologist Robert Mallet from Greek epi- ('upon' or 'above') and kentron ('center'). It was created specifically to distinguish the ground-surface location from the underground fault rupture point.
Word relationships
- focal point: Focal point is a general term for center of interest, whereas epicenter originates in geology.
- nexus: Nexus emphasizes a connection point of multiple forces rather than a central geographic point.
- periphery: The outer edge or boundary area far from the center.
Commonly confused with
- hypocenter: The hypocenter is the actual subterranean origin of an earthquake, whereas the epicenter is on the surface above it.
Collocations
- earthquake epicenter
- epicenter of the crisis
- located at the epicenter
- near the epicenter
Example sentences
- "Seismologists located the epicenter of the earthquake roughly twelve miles offshore." Seismology bulletin
- "The capital city became the epicenter of the nation's pro-democracy movement." Socio-political journalism
Memory hook
EPI (upon) + CENTER = The center UPON the surface of the earth. Surface point above earthquake origin.
When not to use
Do not confuse with 'hypocenter' or 'focus', which is the actual point inside the earth where the quake begins.
Fun facts
- In figurative usage, usage commentators often note that 'epicenter' is frequently used where 'center' would suffice, but it adds a sense of explosive intensity.
Related words
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