Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

secondary-wave

noun
/ˈsɛkənˌdɛri weɪv/
Definition
A type of seismic wave that moves through the Earth, following primary waves and causing the ground to move sideways.
Examples
  • During the earthquake, secondary waves caused significant damage to structures.
  • The geologists studied the secondary waves to learn more about the Earth’s interior.
Meaning
Secondary waves, also known as S-waves, are one of the two main types of elastic waves that are generated by earthquakes. They are slower than primary waves and are capable of moving the ground perpendicular to the direction of wave travel.
Synonyms
  • S-wave
  • Shear wave