The term shock wave refers to a sudden and intense disturbance that travels through a medium, such as air or water. It is often used in the context of an explosion or other event that generates a powerful pressure wave which moves outward from its source. This wave can cause damage or injury by compressing and then rapidly decompressing the surrounding material, creating a strong force on objects within it's path. Shock waves can also refer to psychological shock, where someone is suddenly overwhelmed with intense emotion such as grief, fear or surprise.