wavelength

noun

wave·​length ˈwāv-ˌleŋ(k)th 

1

: the distance in the line of advance of a wave from any one point to the next point of corresponding phase

2

: a particular course or line of thought especially as related to mutual understanding

two people on different wavelengths

Examples of wavelength in a Sentence

Light and sound have different wavelengths.

Recent Examples on the Web

Short-wavelength colors like blue and green scatter, while longer-wavelength reds and oranges pass through and shine onto the Moon. —Ryan Brennan, Kansas City Star, 19 Feb. 2026

Colors with short wavelengths, such as blue and green, are scattered by the air. —Ryan Brennan, Miami Herald, 19 Feb. 2026

Zhao’s team realized that, for peering around corners, those longer wavelengths are actually an advantage, according to a press release. —Prabhat Ranjan Mishra, Interesting Engineering, 16 Feb. 2026

According to Salkey, these wavelengths of light can also widen blood vessels, allowing more nutrients and blood flow to the hair follicles. —Rebecca Strong, USA Today, 16 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1850, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

wavelength

noun

wave·​length ˈwāv-ˌleŋ(k)th 

1

: the distance (as from crest to crest) in the line of advance of a wave from any one point to the next corresponding point

2

: a certain line of thought or behavior that reveals a common understanding

coworkers who are on the same wavelength

Medical Definition

wavelength

noun

wave·​length -ˌleŋ(k)th 

: the distance in the line of advance of a wave from any one point to the next point of corresponding phase

—symbol λ