groundswell

[ ground-swel ]

/ ˈgraʊndˌswɛl /

a broad, deep swell or rolling of the sea, due to a distant storm or gale.

any surge of support, approval, or enthusiasm, especially among the general public: a groundswell of political support for the governor.

Origin of groundswell

First recorded in 1810–20; ground¹ + swell

Another 20,000-plus people would join the groundswell over the coming week.

Boycott Your Bank! |Gary Rivlin |November 4, 2011 |DAILY BEAST
There is no groundswell of opposition to ‘Don't Ask, Don't Tell’ coming from our military.

Warren Buffett Says 'Tax Me' and More Sunday Talk |The Daily Beast Video |November 28, 2010 |DAILY BEAST
Facing a groundswell, BP backed off requiring the waivers on Monday afternoon.

BP's Payoffs Backfire |Rick Outzen |May 4, 2010 |DAILY BEAST
The courage and the endurance women must possess to face a groundswell like this!

The Open Air |Richard Jefferies

To-day the groundswell was more active, the waves closer together, not having had time to forget the force of the extinct gale.

The Open Air |Richard Jefferies
All over the country the groundswell of unrest was steadily and rapidly rising.

To Him That Hath |Ralph Connor
A groundswell on, but we are getting along, and feel very thankful to Him who has favored us.

The Personal Life Of David Livingstone |William Garden Blaikie
There has been no rain in the night, and no groundswell to produce any vibration.

The Remarkable History of Sir Thomas Upmore, bart., M.P., formerly known as "Tommy Upmore" |R. D. Blackmore

groundswell

/ (ˈɡraʊndˌswɛl) /

a considerable swell of the sea, often caused by a distant storm or earthquake or by the passage of waves into shallow water

a strong public feeling or opinion that is detectable even though not openly expressed a groundswell of discontent