A wave is a disturbance that transfers energy from one place to another without transferring matter. Waves transfer energy away from the source, or starting place, of the energy.

Why do all waves transfer?

Waves transfer energy but not mass

The particles 'take part' in the wave by bumping into one another and transferring energy. This is why energy can be transferred, even though the average position of the particles doesn't change.

Do all waves transmit energy and matter?

All waves transfer energy but they do not transfer matter.