beam 1 of 2

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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beam

2 of 2

verb

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
This change allowed researchers to better fine-tune the beams to their targets. Richard J. Price, The Conversation, 15 Oct. 2025 The full-beam bow and superstructure give the yacht a bold and imposing profile while increasing onboard comfort. Rachel Cormack, Robb Report, 14 Oct. 2025
Verb
Applause is heard in the background as the wife is shown beaming a smile before placing her hand over her face, seemingly in shock. Soo Kim, MSNBC Newsweek, 13 Oct. 2025 Crawford was beaming when asked about containing Underwood in the postgame press conference. Haley Sawyer, Oc Register, 12 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for beam
Recent Examples of Synonyms for beam
Noun
  • The Blu-ray release, announced on the eve of the Lumiere Film Festival’s International Classic Film Market (MIFC) in Lyon, follows the film collection’s premiere at this year’s La Rochelle Film Festival and a successful theatrical release in France.
    Ed Meza, Variety, 13 Oct. 2025
  • Sun rays, or 'Lay’s Rays,' beam from the logo, a nod to the light that helps potatoes grow.
    Kait Hanson, Southern Living, 13 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Abercrombie & Fitch is officially shining a light on the women of the NFL for its latest campaign.
    Jean E. Palmieri, Footwear News, 16 Oct. 2025
  • The bankruptcy shines a spotlight on how millions of Americans are hurting from the high cost of living and sluggish job market.
    Elisabeth Buchwald, CNN Money, 16 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Jameson grinned in the photo as his proud dad snapped his picture.
    Hannah Sacks, PEOPLE, 17 Oct. 2025
  • The minister grinned, refused to commit himself, and then stood up for a round of photographs.
    Samanth Subramanian, The Dial, 14 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Marigolds, cascading drapes, and glowing lanterns form a festive canopy of red and gold, blending traditional Indian motifs with the brand’s signature modern aesthetic.
    Mayu Saini, Footwear News, 18 Oct. 2025
  • Staying hydrated with cucumber water may support glowing skin, strong bones, and healthy blood pressure.
    Cristina Mutchler, Verywell Health, 17 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Everyone was smiling, hooting and hollering.
    Matthew Fairburn, New York Times, 16 Oct. 2025
  • The post included a series of pictures of D’Angelo in the studio, as well as a snap of the two musicians in which D is giving one of his classic pensive, knowing looks and Hill is smiling as the pair lean their heads together.
    Gil Kaufman, Billboard, 15 Oct. 2025
Verb
  • Make people laugh and help people out and just keep that vicious cycle of fun going.
    Matt Grobar, Deadline, 13 Oct. 2025
  • There are also shots of the countless members of Swift’s band, dance troupe and stage crew hard at work setting up the show night after night, along with her parents, Scott and Andrea Swift, who are frequently seen smiling and laughing with their daughter.
    Hannah Dailey, Billboard, 13 Oct. 2025

Cite this Entry

“Beam.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/beam. Accessed 21 Oct. 2025.

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