ground swell etymology

Etymology

"Groundswell" is a compound noun derived from two Old English words:

• Ground: Meaning "the surface of the earth" or "a foundation"
• Swell: Meaning "a gradual rise in the level of water"

Meaning and Origin

A groundswell is a long, low wave that rolls in towards the shore from a distant storm or other disturbance. It is typically larger and slower-moving than ordinary waves and can travel great distances without breaking.

The term "groundswell" was originally used in the 17th century to describe the gradual rise in the level of the sea in response to a distant storm. It was later adopted by surfers and oceanographers to refer to the large waves that form in the wake of storms.

Usage

In addition to its literal meaning, "groundswell" can also be used figuratively to describe a growing movement or trend that is not immediately apparent but has the potential to become significant.

Examples

• The groundswell of support for climate action has grown in recent years.
• A groundswell of protests erupted in response to the government's new policies.

ground swell relate terms

• ground

  Etymology The word ground has several origins Old English grund meaning soil

• swell

  Etymology The word swell has multiple etymological origins Old English swellan t

• swell

  Etymology The word swell has multiple etymological origins Old English swellan t

• intumescence

  Etymology The word intumescence is derived from Latin intumescentia a swelling

• intumescent

  Etymology Latin intumescere to swell up Participle intumescens swelling Mea

• edema

  Etymology Greek οἴδημα oídēma Meaning Swelling caused by an abnormal acc

• bloat

  Etymology The word bloat comes from the Middle English word bloten which means to s

• pustule

  Etymology The word pustule is derived from the Latin word pustula which means smal

• protuberance

  Etymology Protuberance comes from the Latin word protuberare meaning to bulge out

• boil

  Etymology Origin Old French boillir Latin bullire Indo European bhel to bubble

• quandary

  Etymology The word quandary comes from the Old French word quandenier which means

• contingent

  Etymology Latin dependere to hang down be dependent Meaning 1 Dependent or Con

• bishop

  Etymology From Middle English bischop from Old English biscop from Frankish biskups