The point on Earth's surface directly above where an earthquake begins is called the epicenter.

Here's a breakdown:

* Hypocenter (or Focus): This is the actual point *inside* the Earth where the earthquake originates.

* Epicenter: This is the point on the Earth's surface directly above the hypocenter.

Think of it like this: Imagine a light bulb inside the Earth. The light bulb is the hypocenter, and the spot on the ground where the light shines brightest is the epicenter.