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

Ultrasound: This noninvasive test uses sound waves and echoes to produce pictures of internal organs. —Doru Paul, Health, 10 Jan. 2025

To make the diagnosis, a specialist called a urologist will perform a scrotal ultrasound, which uses high-frequency sound waves to create detailed images of the testicle. —Matthew Wosnitzer, Verywell Health, 5 Jan. 2025

Secondly, the petals excel at scattering sound waves, making the particles easier to image via ultrasound (they can also be coated with light-absorbing molecules, boosting their visibility via optoacoustic imaging). —Ben Coxworth, New Atlas, 12 Dec. 2024

Here's a pretty cool gadget for the woman who has way, way more jewelry than shoes: a case that uses ultrasonic sound waves to shake off dirt and grime from her necklaces, watches, glasses, and more. —Brigitt Earley, Glamour, 6 Dec. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1848, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Medical Definition

sound wave

noun

1

: sound sense 1

2

sound waves plural : longitudinal pressure waves especially when transmitting audible sound