circular dichroism

noun

1
: the property (as of an optically active medium) of unequal absorption of right and left plane-polarized light so that the emergent light is elliptically polarized
2
: a spectroscopic technique that makes use of circular dichroism

Examples of circular dichroism in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This effect, known as photoelectron circular dichroism (PECD), describes how electrons are emitted differently depending on whether a molecule is left- or right-handed. Neetika Walter, Interesting Engineering, 28 Aug. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1961, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of circular dichroism was circa 1961

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Circular dichroism.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/circular%20dichroism. Accessed 9 Sep. 2025.

Medical Definition

circular dichroism

noun
1
: the property (as of an optically active medium) of unequal absorption of right and left plane-polarized light so that the emergent light is elliptically polarized
2
: a spectroscopic technique that makes use of circular dichroism
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!