electromagnetic wave

noun

: one of the waves that are propagated by simultaneous periodic variations of electric and magnetic field intensity and that include radio waves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays

Examples of electromagnetic wave 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.
It was sent out into the universe as an electromagnetic wave at the speed of light. Robin Raven, Forbes.com, 31 May 2025 The audio of the performance will be converted into an electromagnetic wave. Rebecca Hersher, NPR, 26 May 2025 The process could not only imbue massive objects with more energy but also amplify electromagnetic waves in a phenomenon called superradiance. Manon Bischoff, Scientific American, 12 May 2025 Maxwell used his math to describe the propagation of electromagnetic waves which travel at the same speed as light, Vaudo notes. Bruce Dorminey, Forbes.com, 23 Apr. 2025 See All Example Sentences for electromagnetic wave

Word History

First Known Use

1882, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of electromagnetic wave was in 1882

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Cite this Entry

“Electromagnetic wave.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/electromagnetic%20wave. Accessed 30 Jun. 2025.

Kids Definition

electromagnetic wave

noun
: a wave (as a radio wave, wave of visible light, or X-ray) that consists of an associated electric and magnetic effect and travels at the speed of light

Medical Definition

electromagnetic wave

noun
: one of the waves that are propagated by simultaneous periodic variations of electric and magnetic field intensity and that include radio waves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays

More from Merriam-Webster on electromagnetic wave

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