Shock Wave Definition

noun
A surface of discontinuity in a flow of air, sound, etc. set up when the flow suddenly changes from subsonic to supersonic, characterized by marked increases in temperature, pressure, and density of the flow, as in supersonic flow about an airplane wing.
Webster's New World
A large-amplitude compression wave, as that produced by an explosion or by supersonic motion of a body in a medium.
American Heritage
Webster's New World
A severe disruption, disturbance, or reaction.
The bad news sent shock waves through the stock market.
American Heritage
Synonyms:
  • blast-wave

Other Word Forms of Shock Wave

Noun

Singular:
shock wave
Plural:
shock-waves

Find Similar Words

Find similar words to shock wave using the buttons below.

Words Starting With

Words Ending With

Unscrambles

shock wave