sound wave

noun

1

: sound entry 1 sense 1a

2

sound waves plural : longitudinal pressure waves in any material medium regardless of whether they constitute audible sound

earthquake waves and ultrasonic waves are sometimes called sound waves

Examples of sound wave in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Unlike ultrasound, which requires a medium through which sound waves can pass, X-rays can be used in a vacuum. — Keith Cooper, Space.com, 14 July 2026

His method paired low-frequency sound waves with music, based on the idea that the 30 to 120 Hz range matches the natural resonance of internal organs and tissues. — Samantha Agate, Sacbee.com, 10 July 2026

Skille described the method as pure low-frequency sound waves from 30 Hz to 120 Hz mixed with music, chosen to match the natural resonance of internal organs and tissues, according to Medium. — Samantha Agate, Charlotte Observer, 10 July 2026

When gunfire is detected, the technology can identify the blast from the gun and the sound wave caused by a bullet moving through the air. — Tiffani Jackson, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 8 July 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1848, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for sound wave

• agave
• behave
• concave
• conclave
• enclave
• engrave
• enslave
• forgave
• landgrave
• margrave
• shortwave
• aftershave

Medical Definition

sound wave

noun

1

: sound sense 1

2

sound waves plural : longitudinal pressure waves especially when transmitting audible sound