wavelength

noun

wave·​length ˈwāv-ˌleŋ(k)th 

1

: the distance in the line of advance of a wave from any one point to the next point of corresponding phase

2

: a particular course or line of thought especially as related to mutual understanding

two people on different wavelengths

Examples of wavelength in a Sentence

Light and sound have different wavelengths.

Recent Examples on the Web

Our own local star, literally the brightest object in the sky in most wavelengths, was smack dab where her source was. — Phil Plait, Scientific American, 26 June 2026

In other words, the wavelengths of light emanating from these sources were being stretched as those wavelengths traveled toward us. — Robert Lea, Space.com, 3 July 2026

The observatory has studied an array of cosmic objects across multiple wavelengths of light for nearly 22 years. — Ashley Strickland, CNN Money, 3 July 2026

Red wavelengths are typically marketed for anti-aging benefits, while blue is positioned as an acne fighter. — Lauren Jarvis-Gibson, Sacbee.com, 30 June 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1850, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

wavelength

noun

wave·​length ˈwāv-ˌleŋ(k)th 

1

: the distance (as from crest to crest) in the line of advance of a wave from any one point to the next corresponding point

2

: a certain line of thought or behavior that reveals a common understanding

coworkers who are on the same wavelength

Medical Definition

wavelength

noun

wave·​length -ˌleŋ(k)th 

: the distance in the line of advance of a wave from any one point to the next point of corresponding phase

—symbol λ