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

Long-wavelength gravity anomalies are fingerprints of interior dynamics — clues to how heat escapes a planet, how dense material sinks and how buoyant material rises. —Samantha Mathewson, Space.com, 25 Feb. 2026

Their proprietary ChromaPop technology filters specific light wavelengths to heighten contrast and sharpen terrain definition, revealing the sometimes subtle shifts between shadow, ice, and powder. —Todd Plummer, Robb Report, 25 Feb. 2026

Humans also see such a bright blue because the clear water absorbs red wavelengths and scatters blue light back to our eyes. —Lydia Mansel, Travel + Leisure, 25 Feb. 2026

The remaining light that does reach the Moon is filtered through Earth's atmosphere, which scatters shorter wavelengths and allows red and orange tones to pass through. —ABC News, 25 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