wavelength

noun

wave·​length ˈwāv-ˌleŋ(k)th How to pronounce wavelength (audio)
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 In addition to red light therapy, other wavelengths of light are being tested for their therapeutic benefits. Allison Palmer, Charlotte Observer, 6 June 2024 To avoid repeating that mistake, the Simons Observatory will make its observations at several wavelengths. Kenneth Chang, New York Times, 3 June 2024 It’s got a few wires sticking out, and an infrared sensor, which picks up wavelengths of light just beyond what the human eye can perceive. Christopher Intagliata, NPR, 3 June 2024 The telescope captured all these discoveries using ultraviolet and near-infrared wavelengths. Elizabeth Gamillo, Discover Magazine, 28 May 2024 See all Example Sentences for wavelength 

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'wavelength.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

First Known Use

1850, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of wavelength was in 1850

Dictionary Entries Near wavelength

Cite this Entry

“Wavelength.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wavelength. Accessed 13 Jun. 2024.

Kids Definition

wavelength

noun
wave·​length ˈwāv-ˌleŋ(k)th How to pronounce wavelength (audio)
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 How to pronounce wavelength (audio)
: the distance in the line of advance of a wave from any one point to the next point of corresponding phase
symbol λ

More from Merriam-Webster on wavelength

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