shock wave
Definition of shock wave
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
From the M-W Editors
Examples of shock wave in a Sentence
The decision created a shock wave of criticism.
First Known Use of shock wave
1907
SHOCK WAVE Defined for English Language Learners
shock wave
Definition of shock wave for English Language Learners
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: a movement of extremely high air pressure that is caused by an explosion, an earthquake, etc.
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: a usually negative response or reaction that many people have to a particular thing
Learn More about shock wave
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See words that rhyme with shock wave Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about shock wave
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