gravity wave

noun

Astronomy, Physics. gravitational wave.
a wave created by the action of gravity on local variations in the density of a stratified fluid, as the atmosphere, or at an interface between fluids of different density, as a liquid and a gas.

gravity wave

noun

a wave propagated in a gravitational field, predicted to occur as a result of an accelerating mass
a surface wave on water or other liquid propagated because of the weight of liquid in the crests

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Word History and Origins

Origin of gravity wave¹

First recorded in 1875–80

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Example Sentences

In fact, this stabilizing influence gives rise to the internal gravity waves that influence Saturn’s rings.

From MIT Technology Review

Since then, researchers have come up with several ideas about where the upper atmosphere’s thermal boost might originate, including pressure waves or gravity waves created by turbulence lower in the atmosphere.

From Science News

Current applications include cancer research and drug discovery, gravity wave detection, and fusion simulation.

From Singularity Hub

That induced an up and down oscillating motion known as a gravity wave — akin to the ripples produced by a bobber in a pond.

From Washington Post

Weiss knew that as a gravity wave passed, it would stretch space in the direction of one arm while contracting it in the direction of the other.

From MIT Technology Review

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