an electrical wave which, instead of traveling from one point to antoerh, is stationary. This is due to interations between a wave transmitted down a line and a wave reflected back. If you can imagine an ocean wave which was no longer rollnig but was just sitting there peaked, that would be an example of a standing wave. As another example, a vibrating rope tied at one end will produce a standing wave (see figure below). Wave traveling in one direction. (illo) 2. Wave traveling in opposite direction. (illo) 3. The above two waves produce a standing wave. (illo) —All About Radiation Glossary. Final approval 27.9.89