BEAM Synonyms: 65 Similar and Opposite Words

beam 1 of 2

noun

ˈbēm

Definition of beam

as in ray

a narrow sharply defined line of light radiating from an object we'll need a flashlight that casts a broader beam in order to really see anything

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beam

2 of 2

verb

as in to shine

to emit rays of light a lighthouse has beamed from this site since the 1790s

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

as in to grin

to express an emotion (as amusement) by curving the lips upward my father beamed when I showed him my new car

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Example Sentences

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.

Recent Examples of beam

Noun

The machine fires X-ray beams at a subject, then uses a specialized camera to record how a bone absorbs the beams based on density. — Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 23 July 2026 That matters because pedestrians are harder to see at night, especially outside the brightest part of a vehicle’s headlight beam or while a driver is turning. — Chris Hardesty, AJC.com, 23 July 2026

Verb

Reflect Orbital aims to advance green energy by using orbiting mirrors to beam sunlight onto solar farms at night, enabling 24/7 power generation. — Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 14 July 2026 Video of its flight beamed back to Earth using SpaceX's Starlink Satellite network was able to capture the beginning of the spacecraft's re-entry into Earth's atmosphere. — Eric Lagatta, USA Today, 14 July 2026 See All Example Sentences for beam

Recent Examples of Synonyms for beam

Noun

Born out of California, Sun Bum has built its reputation on protecting both the skin and hair from UV rays, and this leave-in conditioner is one of its bestselling products.

— Nadine Solano, Vogue, 24 July 2026
The temperature has long been too cold for sandals and shorts; the blustery autumn wind is no substitute for cosy rays of summer sun.

— Leo Barraclough, Variety, 24 July 2026

Definition of ray

Verb

After handing Powell her order, Thomas said, laughing, that moments like that had become common since opening the storefront.

— Kansas City Star, Kansas City Star, 26 July 2026
This episode is classic Family Guy, boasting a memorable cameo from Playboy guru Hugh Hefner, plenty of cutaway comedy, and even more cultural references that will leave you laughing.

— Chris Snellgrove, Entertainment Weekly, 25 July 2026