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shock wave

noun

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

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Examples of shock wave in a Sentence

  1. The decision created a shock wave of criticism.

First Known Use of shock wave

1907

SHOCK WAVE Defined for English Language Learners

shock wave

noun

Definition of shock wave for English Language Learners

  • : a movement of extremely high air pressure that is caused by an explosion, an earthquake, etc.

  • : a usually negative response or reaction that many people have to a particular thing

Learn More about shock wave

  1. See words that rhyme with shock wave Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about shock wave

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Examples: shock wave in a Sentence