cathode ray

noun

1. a flow of electrons emanating from a cathode in a vacuum tube and focused into a narrow beam.

cathode ray

1. A beam of electrons streaming from the negatively charged end of a vacuum tube (the cathode) toward a positively charged plate (the anode).

Word History and Origins

Origin of cathode ray¹

First recorded in 1875–80

Example Sentences

The beta particles emanating from radium were soon identified with the electrons of the cathode ray.

From Project Gutenberg

This display uses a five inch, high resolution cathode ray tube.

From Project Gutenberg

A very sudden stoppage, such as is produced when the cathode ray meets an impassable barrier, produces the X-ray.

From Project Gutenberg

It is with such a supply of electricity conducted through a vacuum tube that the cathode ray and the Roentgen ray are produced.

From Project Gutenberg

What the cathode ray is to a certain branch of science, pure raw linseed oil is to carriage and wagon painting.

From Project Gutenberg