continuous wave

[ kuhn-tin-yoo-uhs weyv ]

noun

, Telecommunications.

1. an electromagnetic wave of constant amplitude and frequency: used to carry information by being modulated, as in radio or television, or by being interrupted as in radiotelegraphy. : CW

adjective

1. Also continuous-wave. noting a machine or device that functions through a constant and controlled output of waves, as of light from a laser, sound from an ultrasound, or radio energy from radar. : CW

Word History and Origins

Origin of continuous wave¹

First recorded in 1910–15

Example Sentences

But somebody somewhere is sending a continuous wave, at a meter length, too, that is practically never used.

From Project Gutenberg

A mysterious radio station, hidden away, that sends a continuous wave on a hitherto unused wave length.

From Project Gutenberg

This method of receiving continuous wave signals is called the “heterodyne” method.

From Project Gutenberg