gravitational wave

== English == === Pronunciation === IPA(key): /ˌɡɹæ.vəˈteɪ.ʃə.nəl weɪv/ Hyphenation: gra‧vi‧ta‧tion‧al wave === Noun === gravitational wave (plural gravitational waves) (relativity) A fluctuation in spacetime caused by accelerating mass, which propagates as a wave at the speed of light. (dated, proscribed) A gravity wave. ==== Usage notes ==== The term gravity wave is sometimes used as a synonym for gravitational wave, and vice versa. However, gravity wave generally refers to the waves formed where two fluids meet under gravity, such as wind waves on the ocean surface, and use of the term to describe the astrophysical phenomenon is proscribed. ==== Synonyms ==== ==== Coordinate terms ==== ==== Derived terms ==== ==== Translations ==== === References ===