shock wave

noun

1
: a compressional wave of high amplitude caused by a shock (as from an earthquake or explosion) to the medium through which the wave travels
2
: a violent often pulsating disturbance or reaction
shock waves of rebellion

Examples of shock wave in a Sentence

The decision created a shock wave of criticism.
Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This area, surrounding the supermassive black hole Sagittarius A* (Sgr A*), acts as a kind of galactic mixing bowl, swirling gas and dust and emitting shock waves ripples. Paul Smaglik, Discover Magazine, 20 Mar. 2025 The lock down sent shock waves across nearly every aspect of daily life, including dealing with the dead. Tammy Ljungblad, Kansas City Star, 19 Mar. 2025 McConnell, by comparison, sent shock waves through Washington this year with an eleventh-hour rebellion against the confirmation of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth that caught many Republicans flat-footed. Ramsey Touchberry, Washington Examiner - Political News and Conservative Analysis About Congress, the President, and the Federal Government, 19 Mar. 2025 The move, seen as another Netanyahu maneuver to ensure his political survival, sent shock waves across Israel. Dina Kraft, The Christian Science Monitor, 18 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for shock wave

Word History

First Known Use

1846, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of shock wave was in 1846

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Cite this Entry

“Shock wave.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shock%20wave. Accessed 30 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

shock wave

noun
: a wave formed by the sudden compression (as by an earthquake or supersonic aircraft) of the substance through which the wave travels

More from Merriam-Webster on shock wave

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