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

Gamma rays are short-wavelength electromagnetic waves that can travel deep into most solids, including living tissue. —IEEE Spectrum, 25 Aug. 2025

An experimental new underwater navigation system could help keep that from happening, using a combination of electromagnetic waves and HUD (head-up display) tech. —New Atlas, 10 Aug. 2025

Further experiments conducted in the 1800s confirmed light’s wave-like nature, and Maxwell’s electromagnetism brought forth an understanding of light as the propagation of a sourceless (uncharged) electromagnetic wave at the speed of light. —Ethan Siegel, Big Think, 8 Aug. 2025

Nokia is developing radio sensing networks that use ambient signals like electromagnetic waves, temperature, and motion to generate real-time contextual awareness. —Cathy Hackl, Forbes.com, 12 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1882, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for electromagnetic wave

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

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