compressional wave

noun

: a longitudinal wave (such as a sound wave) propagated by the elastic compression of the medium

called also compression wave

Examples of compressional wave in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web The body wave known as a P wave, sometimes called a primary or compressional wave, travels faster than any other and is the first wave detected during an event. Gemma Tarlach, Discover Magazine, 19 Oct. 2017

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'compressional wave.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1875, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of compressional wave was in 1875

Dictionary Entries Near compressional wave

Cite this Entry

“Compressional wave.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/compressional%20wave. Accessed 4 Nov. 2024.

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