sound wave

noun

1
2
sound waves plural : longitudinal pressure waves in any material medium regardless of whether they constitute audible sound
earthquake waves and ultrasonic waves are sometimes called sound waves

Examples of sound wave in a Sentence

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.
By carefully shaping intense sound waves, researchers have learned how to suspend droplets, particles, and small solids in mid-air. Georgina Jedikovska, Interesting Engineering, 12 Dec. 2025 The pictures accompanying the post included a shot of Olender in a hospital bed as well as a photograph of his echocardiogram, a picture of the heart using sound waves. Mathew Rodriguez, Them., 8 Dec. 2025 Carrying 12 different instruments, SOHO was designed to study the sound waves rippling from the sun to learn about its structure and dynamics. Kenna Hughes-Castleberry, Space.com, 2 Dec. 2025 This creates a sound wave with an amplitude that fluctuates rapidly, which our ears and brains perceive as rough or harsh. Allison Parshall, Scientific American, 31 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for sound wave

Word History

First Known Use

1848, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of sound wave was in 1848

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Cite this Entry

“Sound wave.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sound%20wave. Accessed 21 Dec. 2025.

Medical Definition

sound wave

noun
1
2
sound waves plural : longitudinal pressure waves especially when transmitting audible sound

More from Merriam-Webster on sound wave

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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