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
The major reinforcement comes as the war’s economic shock waves are felt throughout the world as Washington signaled a protracted conflict.
—
Los Angeles Times, 20 Mar. 2026
An Iowa woman was arrested in connection with the death of a real estate agent whose killing nearly 15 years ago sent shock waves through the state and haunted realtors, authorities said Wednesday.
—Tim Stelloh, NBC news, 19 Mar. 2026
The post sent shock waves across the region, where Chavez was revered for decades, from blue-collar neighborhoods such as Pacoima, where the annual Cesar Chavez March for Justice has taken place for years, to rural pockets where farmworkers toil, to the halls of government.
—Ryan Carter, Daily News, 18 Mar. 2026
Every major escalation in the Middle East sends shock waves far beyond the region.
—Arie Perliger, The Conversation, 18 Mar. 2026
See All Example Sentences for shock wave
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Los Angeles Times, 20 Mar. 2026
An Iowa woman was arrested in connection with the death of a real estate agent whose killing nearly 15 years ago sent shock waves through the state and haunted realtors, authorities said Wednesday.
—Tim Stelloh, NBC news, 19 Mar. 2026
The post sent shock waves across the region, where Chavez was revered for decades, from blue-collar neighborhoods such as Pacoima, where the annual Cesar Chavez March for Justice has taken place for years, to rural pockets where farmworkers toil, to the halls of government.
—Ryan Carter, Daily News, 18 Mar. 2026
Every major escalation in the Middle East sends shock waves far beyond the region.
—Arie Perliger, The Conversation, 18 Mar. 2026
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 27 Mar. 2026.
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