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
People in the country are still grappling with what happened Saturday, a shock wave that hangs over the population.
—
Elena Giuliano, NBC news, 5 Jan. 2026
The entire assault lasted less than 30 minutes, though explosions and low-flying aircraft sent shock waves through Caracas.
—Time, 3 Jan. 2026
That move sent shock waves across Missouri among its state, county and city leaders, who collectively have appeared as motivated as ever not to let the Royals follow suit.
—Sam McDowell, Kansas City Star, 1 Jan. 2026
According to Zhang, the bicone shape generates shock waves during hypersonic flight, allowing the missile’s control surfaces to maneuver during its terminal phase.
—Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 29 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for shock wave
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Elena Giuliano, NBC news, 5 Jan. 2026
The entire assault lasted less than 30 minutes, though explosions and low-flying aircraft sent shock waves through Caracas.
—Time, 3 Jan. 2026
That move sent shock waves across Missouri among its state, county and city leaders, who collectively have appeared as motivated as ever not to let the Royals follow suit.
—Sam McDowell, Kansas City Star, 1 Jan. 2026
According to Zhang, the bicone shape generates shock waves during hypersonic flight, allowing the missile’s control surfaces to maneuver during its terminal phase.
—Kaif Shaikh, Interesting Engineering, 29 Dec. 2025
See All Example Sentences for shock wave
Cite this Entry
“Shock wave.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/shock%20wave. Accessed 8 Jan. 2026.
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