compressional wave
noun
: a longitudinal wave (such as a sound wave) propagated by the elastic compression of the medium
called also compression wave
Examples of compressional wave in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
The body wave known as a P wave, sometimes called a primary or compressional wave, travels faster than any other and is the first wave detected during an event.
—
Gemma Tarlach, Discover Magazine, 19 Oct. 2017
These examples are automatically compiled from online sources to
illustrate current usage. Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of
Merriam-Webster or its editors.
Send us feedback
about these examples.
Gemma Tarlach, Discover Magazine, 19 Oct. 2017
Dictionary Entries Near compressional wave
Cite this Entry
“Compressional wave.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/compressional%20wave. Accessed 16 Nov. 2024.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
Share