wavelength

noun

wave·​length ˈwāv-ˌleŋ(k)th 

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

Word History

First Known Use

1850, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

wavelength

noun

wave·​length ˈwāv-ˌleŋ(k)th 

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 

: the distance in the line of advance of a wave from any one point to the next point of corresponding phase

—symbol λ