seismic wave

noun
1.
a wave of energy that is generated by an earthquake or other earth vibration and that travels within the earth or along its surface.
British Dictionary definitions for seismic waves

seismic wave

noun
1.
an earth vibration generated by an earthquake or explosion
seismic waves in Culture
seismic waves [(seyez-mik)]

In geology, shock waves in solid rock generated by earthquakes or underground explosions. (See seismology.)

Note: Seismic waves travel through the Earth and can be detected far from their source.
Note: Most of our knowledge of the Earth's interior comes from studying seismic waves.
Note: The measurement of seismic waves is also important in detecting underground nuclear tests.