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.
Fear among migrants Friday news also sent shock waves through Miami’s Haitian community, which finds itself in a particularly troubling situation. Nora Gámez Torres, Miami Herald, 30 May 2025 And in early April, Trump slapped tariffs on more than 180 countries while escalating a tariff tit-for-tat with China, sending shock waves across financial markets. Lee Ying Shan,anniek Bao, CNBC, 29 May 2025 The moment instantly sent shock waves across the internet. Christina Dugan Ramirez, FOXNews.com, 27 May 2025 The move is sending shock waves throughout the cannabis and hemp community. Iris Dorbian, Forbes.com, 22 May 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 9 Jun. 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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