electromagnetic radiation

noun

: energy in the form of electromagnetic waves
also : a series of electromagnetic waves

Examples of electromagnetic radiation in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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On November 23, 2023, twin observatories, collectively known as the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO), detected a gravitational wave — a form of radiation distinct from the electromagnetic radiation captured by other observatories. Ruairi MacKenzie, Discover Magazine, 16 July 2025 The lack of interaction with electromagnetic radiation, one of the universe's four fundamental forces, has led scientists to search beyond the standard model of particle physics to hunt for new particles that could account for dark matter. Robert Lea, Space.com, 17 June 2025 For example, an electromagnetic pulse (EMP) attack, which involves the use of electromagnetic radiation to damage electronic devices and power sources. Kevin Williams, CNBC, 24 July 2025 Strange signal originated in Milky Way The team of astronomers discovered the strange signal while hunting for bright, powerful flashes of electromagnetic radiation in the distant universe known as fast radio bursts. Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 28 June 2025 See All Example Sentences for electromagnetic radiation

Word History

First Known Use

1891, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of electromagnetic radiation was in 1891

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Electromagnetic radiation.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/electromagnetic%20radiation. Accessed 19 Aug. 2025.

Kids Definition

electromagnetic radiation

noun
: energy in the form of electromagnetic waves
also : a series of electromagnetic waves

Medical Definition

electromagnetic radiation

noun
: a series of electromagnetic waves

More from Merriam-Webster on electromagnetic radiation

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