| a periodic oscillation, as simple harmonic motion, having the same geometric representation as a sine function. |
| sine wave n. A waveform with deviation that can be graphically expressed as the sine curve. |
Sine Wave
An geometric waveform that oscillates (moves up, down or side-to-side) periodically, and is defined by the function y = sin x. In other words, it is an s-shaped, smooth wave that oscillates above and below zero.
Investopedia Commentary
The Composite Index of Lagging Indicators, one of three Business Cycle Indicators published by the Conference Board is known to resemble a sine wave since the measures that make up the index (i.e. ratios and interest rates) tend to oscillate between a range of values. For example, inflation is always kept between specified rates and if/once inflation meets or exceeds a specified limit, interest rates will be adjusted to either increase or decrease inflation so it is brought within a target range. Thus, as the rate of inflation increases, decreases or stays the same, interest rates will oscillate up and down to control an undesired rate of inflation.
Related Links
Economic Indicators to Know
The Media As A Lagging Indicator
See also: Business Cycle, Coincident Indicator, Consumer Confidence Index - CCI, Detrend, Federal Funds Rate, Federal Open Market Committee - FOMC, Inflation, Lagging Indicator, Leading Indicator, The Conference Board
sine wave mathematics
A waveform of a single constant frequency and amplitude that continues for all time.
Compare wavelet.
(1994-11-09)