bow wave

[ bou ]

noun

the wave generated on either side of a vessel's bow by its forward movement through the water.
a type of shock wave formed in front of a body moving at supersonic speed.

Origin of bow wave

First recorded in 1875–80

Then he turned his glance to either side, watching the widespreading bow wave as it swept out over the lagoon.
The Hero of Panama | F. S. Brereton
The boat was charging along at full speed, throwing aside a bow wave nearly as high as herself.
"Where Angels Fear to Tread" and Other Stories of the Sea | Morgan Robertson
Furthermore, false killer whales are the only "blackfish" which are known to ride the bow wave of a ship.
Whales, Dolphins, and Porpoises of the Western North Atlantic | Stephen Leatherwood
They are often seen jumping clear of the water and habitually ride the bow wave of moving vessels.
Whales, Dolphins, and Porpoises of the Western North Atlantic | Stephen Leatherwood
They frequently come to the bow of a boat from considerable distances to ride in the bow wave and may ride for protracted periods.
Whales, Dolphins, and Porpoises of the Western North Atlantic | Stephen Leatherwood

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