sound wave

noun

, Physics.

1. a longitudinal wave in an elastic medium, especially a wave producing an audible sensation.

sound wave

noun

1. a wave that propagates sound

Word History and Origins

Origin of sound wave¹

First recorded in 1865–70

Example Sentences

Similarly a sound wave in air is reflected upon striking the surface of a body.

From Project Gutenberg

During a complete vibration of the fork, therefore, the sound wave moves four times the length of the air column.

From Project Gutenberg

Let the curve A represent the sound wave sent out by one tuning fork and B, that sent out by the other.

From Project Gutenberg

The result was that I saw a wave of compression, of the same sort as a sound-wave in air, move through the throng.

From Project Gutenberg

Now the actions and reactions between the air-particles in a sound wave are purely mechanical.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• radio wave