radio wave

noun

: an electromagnetic wave with radio frequency

Examples of radio 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.
This transition emits a faint radio wave at a wavelength of 21 centimeters. — Perri Thaler, Quanta Magazine, 30 Oct. 2026 Using telescopes that look at radio waves from space may provide scientists an alternate way to see what’s going on. — Yjan Gordon, The Conversation, 30 Oct. 2026 These jets collide with cosmic gas, which generates afterglows seen across visible light, radio waves, and X-rays. — Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 29 Oct. 2026 Since radio waves travel at close to the speed of light, a signal could theoretically cover distances equivalent to the planet's circumference several times in a single second. — Micah Hanks, Space.com, 27 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for radio wave

Word History

First Known Use

1915, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of radio wave was in 1915

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Cite this Entry

“Radio wave.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/radio%20wave. Accessed 14 Nov. 2026.

Kids Definition

radio wave

noun
: an electromagnetic wave with radio frequency

Medical Definition

: an electromagnetic wave with radio frequency

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