transverse wave

noun

, Physics.

1. a wave in which the direction of displacement is perpendicular to the direction of propagation, as a surface wave of water.

transverse wave

noun

1. a wave, such as an electromagnetic wave, that is propagated in a direction perpendicular to the direction of displacement of the transmitting field or medium Compare longitudinal wave

transverse wave

1. A wave that oscillates perpendicular to the axis along which the wave travels. Electromagnetic waves are transverse waves, since the electric and magnetic fields oscillate at a right angle to the direction of motion. Waves in bodies of water are also transverse waves, since the molecules of water oscillate up and down perpendicular to the direction of the wave's motion.
2. Compare longitudinal waveSee more at wave

Word History and Origins

Origin of transverse wave¹

First recorded in 1920–25