ultrasonic sound wave — Sound waves with frequencies above the upper audible limit of human hearing (typically above 20,000 Hz)
Part of speech: NOUN
Definition: Sound waves with frequencies above the upper audible limit of human hearing (typically above 20,000 Hz)
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˈʌltrəsɑnɪk saʊnd weɪv/
Example Sentences
- The bat's ultrasonic sound waves bounced off the mosquito, helping it locate dinner with pinpoint accuracy.
- Medical ultrasonic sound waves can create detailed images of unborn babies.
- The jewelry store uses ultrasonic sound waves to clean rings - it's like a spa day for diamonds!
ultrasonic sound wave
NOUN[/ˈʌltrəsɑnɪk saʊnd weɪv/]
Sound waves with frequencies above the upper audible limit of human hearing (typically above 20,000 Hz)
The doctor uses an ultrasonic sound wave to see the baby on the screen.
Electronic devices create ultrasonic waves in perfect harmonic patterns!
Got the picture? Now let's practice.
🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The term combines Latin 'ultra' (beyond, over) and Greek 'sonicus' (of sound), developing in the 19th century to describe sound waves with frequencies exceeding the upper limit of human hearing. The compound reflects scientific terminology conventions that merge Romance and Greek elements to denote phenomena transcending ordinary perception.
Breakdown
ultra- (beyond, over) + sonic (from Latin sonus, sound) + -ic (adjective suffix denoting relation or quality). 'Wave' derives from Old English 'wafian' (to move back and forth), referring to the propagation pattern of these high-frequency sound oscillations.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The bat's ultrasonic sound waves bounced off the mosquito, helping it locate dinner with pinpoint accuracy.”
“Medical ultrasonic sound waves can create detailed images of unborn babies.”
“The jewelry store uses ultrasonic sound waves to clean rings - it's like a spa day for diamonds!”
“Researchers study how whales communicate using ultrasonic sound waves across vast ocean distances.”
📚Related Words
Want to master 27,000+ words?
Sign up free for flashcards & quizzes.