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

California surfing legend Kurt Van Dyke’s murder, initially reported as a home invasion in which his girlfriend had been zip-tied, sent shock waves through the surf community earlier this year. — Iris Kwok, Los Angeles Times, 13 Nov. 2026

In a major shakeup that will send shock waves throughout Hollywood and the comic book world, James Gunn and Peter Safran are stepping down as co-CEOs of DC studios. — Borys Kit, HollywoodReporter, 9 Nov. 2026

Regulators had seized Ueno Bank just three days earlier, sending shock waves through the financial system and setting off the country's worst political crisis in more than a decade. — CBS News, 7 Nov. 2026

The swift collapse of a bank that claimed more than 60% of Paraguay’s adults as customers has sent shock waves through the country’s financial system. — ABC News, 5 Nov. 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