Smaller earthquakes that follow a major earthquake, caused by the Earth's crust adjusting after the initial shock.
Compound of 'after' and 'shock' (from Middle Dutch 'schok'). The term became standard in seismology during the 19th century as scientists developed better earthquake monitoring.
Aftershocks can actually last for years after a major earthquake—in 2011, Japan experienced aftershocks for months—and they help seismologists understand how the Earth's plates are still settling and moving!
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