# waveform

/ˈweɪvˌfɔɹm/ (US) · /wˈeɪvfɔːm/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/waveform
Updated: 2026-05-20

## Definition

the shape of a sound or signal when you look at it on a screen. It shows how the sound changes over time, like a wave.

For teachers: the shape of a wave representing a sound or other signal, typically displayed on an oscilloscope or similar device. Refers to the graphical representation of amplitude over time.

## Examples

- The engineer adjusted the waveform to reduce the noise.
- By analyzing the waveform of the electrical signal, the technician identified the source of the interference.
- The software allows users to manipulate the waveform directly, enabling precise editing of individual peaks and valleys within the audio track.

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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.