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

Swift was loaded with three instruments designed to pick up gamma rays, x-rays, and ultraviolet and optical wavelength light. — Adam Kovac, Scientific American, 4 Nov. 2026

In one effort to better understand what's going on, scientists are learning how specialized cells in our eyes turn the blue wavelength part of the light spectrum into neural signals affecting mood and alertness. — ABC News, 4 Nov. 2026

According to quantum mechanics, every object is ultimately wavelike, and the greater its mass, the shorter its wavelength. — George Musser, Quanta Magazine, 2 Nov. 2026

If the neutrino’s source of origin is hidden at gamma-ray wavelengths, but not at radio wavelengths, then radio telescopes could become an essential tool in neutrino astronomy. — Yjan Gordon, The Conversation, 30 Oct. 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