gravitational wave

noun

: a disturbance in space-time in the form of a wave that propagates the gravitational field

Gravitational waves are a natural offshoot of the rubber-sheet construction of general relativity. Just as a massive object sitting on the fabric of spacetime creates a dimple, so moving or changing objects, under certain conditions, create wrinkles in the fabric. Those wrinkles, tiny distortions in spacetime, zoom away at the speed of light. Because these gravitational waves carry energy, anything emitting them will lose a tiny bit of its speed.

—Science

Examples of gravitational wave in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The latest catalogue is expected to further encourage international cooperation, particularly in areas such as galaxy evolution, cosmology, large-scale cosmic structures and the identification of possible sources of gravitational waves. — Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 10 Sep. 2026

First theorized for gravitational waves, the memory effect happens when a wave passes by a particle and leaves a lasting effect on its motion. — Matt Von Hippel, ArsTechnica, 10 Sep. 2026

Though even before that happens, the research does point to the utility of gravitational wave astronomy to study some of the universe's most violent events. — Robert Lea, Space.com, 9 Sep. 2026

Named for fast-flying swift birds due to its ability to pivot rapidly to peer at cosmic events and afterglows, the telescope has enabled the study of comets, gravitational waves and black holes over long periods of time. — Ashley Strickland, CNN Money, 7 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1906, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for gravitational wave

• aftershave
• architrave
• autoclave
• microwave
• misbehave
• agave
• behave
• concave
• conclave
• enclave
• engrave
• enslave