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

Astronomers have studied nine local galaxies to discover how shock waves from the galaxies' central supermassive black holes sculpt star formation. — Robert Lea, Space.com, 21 Sep. 2026

According to Tianmushan Laboratory, the arrangement is intended to prevent shock waves generated around the nose and wings from merging into a stronger wave, while the rear configuration helps redistribute and weaken the shock waves. — Bojan Stojkovski, Interesting Engineering, 20 Sep. 2026

The discoveries have sent shock waves around the country, sparked a high-level investigation and highlighted the scourge of femicide and high levels of violent crime. — ABC News, 16 Sep. 2026

Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor’s documentary about the systems Israel’s intelligence services use to target Palestinians sent shock waves through Venice. — Bilge Ebiri, Vulture, 14 Sep. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1846, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for shock wave

• agave
• behave
• concave
• conclave
• enclave
• engrave
• enslave
• forgave
• landgrave
• margrave
• shortwave
• aftershave

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