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
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Some didgeridoo instrumentalists believe its low-frequency sound waves can foster a state of health and harmony for those in the Aboriginal community. — Andrea Flores, Los Angeles Times, 19 Aug. 2026 Supported by government grants and patents, the team built the first Sonablate device to treat prostate conditions using sound waves. — Chase Jordan august 19, Charlotte Observer, 19 Aug. 2026 Essentially, when sound waves enter these cavities, the moving air is forced out as a concentrated jet. — Sara Hashemi, Popular Science, 19 Aug. 2026 Engineers at Switzerland’s École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL) have unlocked a way to transform basic sound waves into powerful directional thrust. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 17 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for sound wave

Word History

First Known Use

1848, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of sound wave was in 1848

Rhymes for sound wave

See All Rhymes for sound wave

Browse Nearby Words

sound-type
sound wave
sound wormy
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Cite this Entry

“Sound wave.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/sound%20wave. Accessed 21 Aug. 2026.

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Medical Definition

sound wave

noun
1
: sound sense 1
2
sound waves plural : longitudinal pressure waves especially when transmitting audible sound

More from Merriam-Webster on sound wave

Nglish: Translation of sound wave for Spanish Speakers

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