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

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

beam

2 of 2

verb

as in to shine

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

Synonyms & Similar Words

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

In the full-beam owner’s suite, large windows fill the private sanctuary with light. — Julia Zaltzman, Robb Report, 15 Sep. 2026 In this new experiment, a proton beam acted as the cosmic ray, while the oxygen beam played the role of Earth’s atmosphere. — Jesse Liu, The Conversation, 14 Sep. 2026

Verb

Despite a paywall, a graphic on the piece shows data centers in these outposts beaming valuable data to the Middle Kingdom, which, to the American government, is unacceptable. — John Werner, Forbes.com, 29 Aug. 2026 The sun beams down as Karen Sterling waits in line for a Talarico rally in Lockhardt on July 28. — Eleanor Dearman updated August 29, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 29 Aug. 2026 See All Example Sentences for beam

Recent Examples of Synonyms for beam

Noun

Now, however, the boutique physical media label Fun City Editions has released a superb Blu-ray of the film, featuring both a gorgeous restoration and illuminating supplements.

— Jim Hemphill, IndieWire, 17 Sep. 2026
Comfort, breathability, and packability are just a few of the boxes checked by this bamboo-viscose hoodie that blocks 95 percent of the sun’s UV rays (and comes in women’s sizes).

— Katie Jackson, Travel + Leisure, 17 Sep. 2026

Definition of ray

Verb

Simon suggested that the grinning idiot and horse face were laughing prior to the reading of the names of the deceased at the 9/11 memorial service.

— Voice of the People, New York Daily News, 16 Sep. 2026
The grinning Colbert was positively buoyant arriving to the empty engraving counter with his already-dancing wife, Evelyn McGee Colbert.

— KiMi Robinson, USA Today, 15 Sep. 2026

Definition of grin

Verb

My hair was thick, curly, and lush; my lips were full; my decades-long struggle with hormonal acne slowed to a stop; and my skin glowed.

— Kara Nesvig, Parents, 17 Sep. 2026
Of course the playwright has prepared the way, but the wayward emotions emanating from these inwardly glowing performances are refreshing in work that has the crisp, circumscribed elegance of a mathematical proof.

— Theater Critic, Los Angeles Times, 16 Sep. 2026

Definition of glow

Verb

As Gansey greeted them, shaking hands, taking photos and smiling endlessly, one stepped forward with a question that encapsulated everything.

— Tony Jones, New York Times, 8 Sep. 2026
Where the Europeans see a battle to be won, and even the other Sherpa see a terrifying sacred force, Tenzing sees a heavenly mother — smiling down on him since childhood, bearing witness to his heartbreaks in adulthood, calling him now to come home.

— Angie Han, HollywoodReporter, 8 Sep. 2026