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
News of the death toll sent shock waves through Chinese social media, although the topic ranked only 11th on Weibo, China’s X-like platform, which is subject to strict internet censorship.
—
Peter Guo, NBC News, 12 Nov. 2024
The result sent shock waves across much of Africa, where Botswana has long been seen as a model of development success despite its small size.
—Larry Diamond, Foreign Affairs, 8 Nov. 2024
One Direction member Liam Payne’s sudden death on Wednesday quickly sent shock waves through the industry.
—Brie Stimson, Fox News, 17 Oct. 2024
The scandal engulfed the prime minister Monday and sent shock waves across the country.
—Alexis Simendinger, The Hill, 5 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for shock wave 
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Peter Guo, NBC News, 12 Nov. 2024
The result sent shock waves across much of Africa, where Botswana has long been seen as a model of development success despite its small size.
—Larry Diamond, Foreign Affairs, 8 Nov. 2024
One Direction member Liam Payne’s sudden death on Wednesday quickly sent shock waves through the industry.
—Brie Stimson, Fox News, 17 Oct. 2024
The scandal engulfed the prime minister Monday and sent shock waves across the country.
—Alexis Simendinger, The Hill, 5 Nov. 2024
See all Example Sentences for shock wave
Dictionary Entries Near shock wave
Cite this Entry
“Shock wave.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shock%20wave. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.
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