alpha wave

noun

: an electrical rhythm of the brain with a frequency of approximately 8 to 13 cycles per second that is often associated with a state of wakeful relaxation

called also alpha, alpha rhythm

Examples of alpha wave in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In the 2025 study, researchers observed a reduction in alpha wave amplitude when the participants were meditating. — Mark Travers, Forbes.com, 27 Aug. 2025

Short, consistent practice has been shown to increase alpha waves in the brain, associated with relaxation and mental clarity. — Felicia Jackson, Forbes, 19 Mar. 2025

The headband emits acoustic simulation that responds to the user’s brainwaves to induce sleep by suppressing alpha waves, which occur when the brain is in a relaxed state but still awake. — Alyssa Goldberg, USA TODAY, 24 Jan. 2025

For instance, alpha waves occur in a more relaxed mental state, while beta waves tend to be produced when a person is alert or focused. — Emily Mullin, WIRED, 24 Sep. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1936, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for alpha wave

• aftershave
• architrave
• autoclave
• microwave
• misbehave
• agave
• behave
• concave
• conclave
• enclave
• engrave
• enslave

Medical Definition

alpha wave

noun

: an electrical rhythm of the brain with a frequency of 8 to 13 cycles per second that is often associated with a state of wakeful relaxation

called also alpha