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transverse wave
noun
: a wave in which the vibrating element moves in a direction perpendicular to the direction of advance of the wave
Examples of transverse wave in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The team applied a method called coronal seismology to track magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) transverse waves in the UCoMP data.
—Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 3 Oct. 2024
The longitudinal waves triggered by a rider slowing or braking spread twice as fast as the transverse waves triggered by riders moving side to side.
—Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 19 Nov. 2018
The second are transverse waves, produced as riders swerve left or right to avoid obstacles or find a more advantageous position.
—Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 19 Nov. 2018
Patterns for Alto’ Aether: a medium that in the wave theory of light permeates all space and transmits transverse waves.
—Jon Pareles, New York Times, 19 Jan. 2018
These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'transverse 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
1912, in the meaning defined above
Dictionary Entries Near transverse wave
Cite this Entry
“Transverse wave.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/transverse%20wave. Accessed 4 Nov. 2024.
Kids Definition
transverse wave
noun
: a wave in which the vibrating element moves in a direction perpendicular to the direction of advance of the wave
More from Merriam-Webster on transverse wave
Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about transverse wave
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