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.
Despite the speedy response, the shooting left two dead and injured five others, sending shock waves through the university community. Dalia Faheid, CNN Money, 19 Apr. 2025 The Nuggets fired Malone and Booth last Tuesday during a four-game losing streak, sending shock waves through the NBA community because of the dramatic timing as much as the changes themselves. Bennett Durando, Denver Post, 14 Apr. 2025 The death of former LSU wide receiver Kyren Lacy sent shock waves across the football world on Sunday with several NFL players and other athletes expressing their condolences. Ryan Gaydos, FOXNews.com, 13 Apr. 2025 But the government's failure to protect minorities sent shock waves through the Druze community. Jane Arraf, NPR, 9 Apr. 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Shock wave.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shock%20wave. Accessed 24 Apr. 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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