What is a waveform that is not a sine wave referred to as?

A waveform that is not a sine wave is commonly referred to as a complex wave. This term is used because a complex wave typically consists of multiple sine waves combined at various frequencies and amplitudes. Unlike a simple wave, which is a single frequency sine wave, a complex wave can have various harmonic content, making it more intricate in its structure. Complex waves can often produce rich and varied sound, as they represent a combination of different frequencies that together create a unique waveform.

In contrast, other types of waves listed, such as composite waves or periodic waves, might refer to specific characteristics or arrangements of waves but do not explicitly capture the idea of being composed of multiple sine wave components as a complex wave does. Therefore, identifying non-sine-based waveforms as complex is a fundamental concept in understanding waveforms in electronics and signal processing.