# shockwave

/ˈʃɑˌkweɪv/ (US) · /ʃˈɒkweɪv/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/shockwave
Updated: 2026-05-31

## Definition

a sudden, powerful wave of energy or emotion that spreads out from a central point. It can describe the physical force of an explosion or the deep emotional impact of bad news.

For teachers: a sudden, powerful wave of energy or emotion that propagates through a medium. In physics, it refers to a high-pressure wave produced by an explosion or supersonic object; in a figurative sense, it describes a sudden, profound emotional or social impact.

## Examples

- The news of the merger sent a shockwave through the company.
- The sudden collapse of the local bank sent a financial shockwave through the entire regional economy.
- The physicist explained how a supersonic aircraft creates a shockwave that manifests as a loud sonic boom to observers on the ground, while the pilot remains silent within the cone of pressure.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.