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
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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

Word History

First Known Use

1912, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of transverse wave was in 1912

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 25 Dec. 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

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