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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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

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 curved bar, constructed from cast-glass beams covered in silver leaf, takes on an intergalactic glow when illuminated at night. — Khushbu Shah, Bon Appetit Magazine, 20 Oct. 2026 The company rates the series at up to 1,800 lumens with a maximum beam distance of 215 meters; ArkTac Ultra adds a green laser alongside UV and red-light functions. — Connie Etemadi, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 20 Oct. 2026

Verb

Richard Schiff in particular, was just beaming at me in this warm and wonderful way. — Michael Schneider, Variety, 7 Oct. 2026 It was beamed around the world on the PTL Satellite Network — the first-ever Christian satellite network. — Charlotte Observer, 6 Oct. 2026 See All Example Sentences for beam

Recent Examples of Synonyms for beam

Noun

Look for ingredients like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide in your sunscreen, which keep both UVB and the more dangerous UVA rays at bay.

— Norah O'Donnell, CBS News, 21 Oct. 2026
Factory 25 is planning a spring 2027 theatrical release followed by a digital and Blu-ray release.

— Brent Lang, IndieWire, 21 Oct. 2026

Definition of ray

Verb

After Jones shined during his first start, the Gators’ quarterback decision will be scrutinized and dissected, fueling two weeks of endless conjecture leading up to the Georgia game.

— Edgar Thompson, The Orlando Sentinel, 18 Oct. 2026
The offense continues to shine with the one-two punch of Hawkins and Cook.

— ABC News, ABC News, 17 Oct. 2026

Definition of shine

Verb

At night, the Sycamore trees glow with lantern light, inviting guests to indulge in late night cocktails and conversation.

— Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 22 Oct. 2026
With glowing bats, spiders and eyes, the lights accent the historic home with just the right touch.

— Patrick Connolly, The Orlando Sentinel, 22 Oct. 2026

Definition of glow

Verb

Zion, 11, is smart and creative and enjoys having fun and making others laugh.

— The Star, Kansas City Star, 24 Oct. 2026
Foreman can often be seen making audiences laugh at Comedy In Harlem, which held a comedy show for Breast Cancer Awareness in October where 10% of the proceeds go toward breast cancer research and awareness.

— Noelle Lilley, CBS News, 22 Oct. 2026