radio frequency

noun

: any of the electromagnetic wave frequencies that lie in the range extending from below 3 kilohertz to about 300 gigahertz and that include the frequencies used for communications signals (as for radio and television broadcasting and cell-phone and satellite transmissions) or radar signals

Examples of radio frequency in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The challenge Yakovenko faces is evading Russia’s efforts to jam radio frequencies used to control his drones. —Dexter Filkins, New Yorker, 14 July 2025

In different ways, infrared laser (or optical) beams have an edge over radio frequencies, says Eric Yeatman, vice-principal and head of the College of Science and Engineering at the University of Glasgow. —Meghie Rodrigues, IEEE Spectrum, 12 July 2025

Electromagnetic warfare consists of using the electromagnetic spectrum (radio frequencies, microwaves, visible light such as lasers, etc.) to disrupt or deny adversary spacecraft operations. —Brett Tingley, Space.com, 11 July 2025

The type of radio frequency also gave them an idea of what sort of enemy drone was heading their way. —Erika I. Ritchie, Oc Register, 13 June 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1915, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for radio frequency

• multifrequency
• infrequency

Kids Definition

radio frequency

noun

: any of the electromagnetic wave frequencies between about 3 kilohertz and 300 gigahertz that are used especially in radio and television transmission and in radar

Medical Definition

radio frequency

noun

: any of the electromagnetic wave frequencies that lie in a range extending from below 3 kilohertz to about 300 gigahertz and that include the frequencies used for communications signals (as for radio and television broadcasting and cell-phone transmissions) or radar signals

—often hyphenated when used before another noun

radio-frequency waves