shock wave

• Onde de pression extrêmement forte qui se propage dans un milieu (air, eau ou sol) à une vitesse supérieure à celle du son, généralement provoquée par une explosion, un séisme ou un objet supersonique. Au sens figuré, désigne une réaction ou un impact puissant, souvent négatif, qui se propage dans un groupe ou une société.

A powerful disturbance that moves through a medium (such as air, water, or earth) at a speed faster than sound, typically caused by an explosion, earthquake, or supersonic object. Figuratively, it can refer to a strong and often negative reaction or impact that spreads through a group or society.

1. Physical shock waveB2formal

   A region of high pressure and high temperature that travels through a medium at supersonic speed, caused by an explosion or a fast-moving object.

   Onde de choc

   • The bomb explosion created a powerful shock wave that shattered windows.
   • Supersonic jets produce a shock wave when they break the sound barrier.
   • The shock wave from the earthquake traveled hundreds of miles.

2. Figurative shock waveB2informal

   A strong and often negative reaction or effect that spreads through a group or society.

   onde de choc (sens figuré)

   • The news of the CEO's resignation sent shock waves through the company.
   • The scandal caused shock waves across the political landscape.
   • The announcement of the new policy sent shock waves through the community.