new wave

noun

often capitalized N&W
1
: a cinematic movement that is characterized by improvisation, abstraction, and subjective symbolism and that often makes use of experimental photographic techniques
2
: a new movement in a particular field
3
: popular music less raw than punk rock and typically including unconventional melodies, exaggerated beats, and quirky lyrics
4
: dernier cri
especially : fashion that is strikingly outrageous
new-wave
ˈnü-ˈwāv How to pronounce new wave (audio)
ˈnyü-
-ˌwāv
adjective
new waver noun

Examples of new wave in a Sentence

people who listened to punk, New Wave, or disco
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.
The Talent Magnet Effect Competition is attracting a new wave of elite athletes who might have once targeted tennis. Cheryl Robinson, Forbes.com, 25 June 2025 Its predecessor, Dynamo, was its most experimental and eclectic work, showcasing a complete turnaround of its new wave style over the previous decade. Delfina Marchese, Billboard, 19 June 2025 According to Miller, pushing the brand in front of new demographics is how LVMH is trying to drive a new wave of enthusiasm around its flagship brand. Elias Burke, New York Times, 17 June 2025 At least five people died in Israel as Iran fired a new wave of missile attacks, while Israel warned residents of part of Tehran to evacuate ahead of forthcoming strikes. The Hill, 16 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for new wave

Word History

First Known Use

1960, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of new wave was in 1960

Cite this Entry

“New wave.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/new%20wave. Accessed 1 Jul. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on new wave

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