subharmonic

[ suhb-hahr-mon-ik ]

noun

, Physics.

1. an oscillation that has a frequency which is an integral submultiple of the frequency of a related oscillation.

subharmonic

/ ˌsʌbhɑːˈmɒnɪk /

noun

1. a fraction of a frequency

Word History and Origins

Origin of subharmonic¹

sub- + harmonic

Example Sentences

He said that the trials so far declared successful have been under only modest sea conditions that fail to represent anywhere near the threat of the phenomenon of extreme oscillation called subharmonic resonance.

From Washington Times

He said that the trials so far declared successful have been under only modest sea conditions that fail to represent anywhere near the threat of the phenomenon of extreme oscillation called subharmonic resonance.

From Seattle Times

With a nearly subharmonic bass line dredging up the blues and drummer Jim Sclavunos hammering his snare in three-shot, gunfire increments, the singer told of bullet holes and infernal battles, creating musical cathedrals as ornate and imposing as the room surrounding him. 

From Los Angeles Times

Subharmonics Technology aside, a striking component of Kimura's performance is the integration of her subharmonic bowing techniques that she has been developing for nearly two decades.

From Scientific American

Throughout her performance Kimura's bow flew across the strings as she delved into the subharmonic range and back, often during a single bow stroke.

From Scientific American