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

OpenAI is seemingly taking a very different approach to the one its rival Anthropic has taken with Mythos, a model that sent shock waves through cybersecurity circles for its ability to identify and exploit software vulnerabilities. —Hadas Gold, CNN Money, 29 Apr. 2026

The attack on ambulances belonging to Hatzola in late March sent shock waves through the community. —Chantal Da Silva, NBC news, 29 Apr. 2026

The verdict capped a yearslong effort to hold Chasing Horse accountable after he was first arrested and indicted in 2023, sending what authorities described as shock waves through the area. —Janelle Ash, FOXNews.com, 28 Apr. 2026

The University of Arkansas’ recent decision to eliminate men’s and women’s tennis sent shock waves through the world of college athletics. —Steven Johnson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 28 Apr. 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