continuous wave

American  

[kuhn-tin-yoo-uhs weyv] / kənˈtɪn yu əs ˈweɪv /

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

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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

Etymology

Origin of continuous wave

First recorded in 1910–15

Example Sentences

“Somerville has experienced a continuous wave of immigration now for well over a century of Europeans and those from the Caribbean and Central and South America,” he said in a telephone interview.

From Washington Post • Apr. 12, 2019

These machines take the math exercise that is a digital signal and turn it into the continuous wave that is analog.

From Washington Post

A 100 Mile C. W. Telegraph Transmitter.—Here is a continuous wave telegraph transmitter that will cover distances up to 100 miles that you can rely on.

From The Radio Amateur's Hand Book by Collins, A. Frederick (Archie Frederick)

The frill, rising to a continuous wave along the side, catches the sunlight and a perpetual rainbow dances in it, changing always but remaining ever.

From Round the Wonderful World by Forrest, A. S. (Archibald Stevenson)

The 50 Watt Vacuum Tube Oscillator.—This is the size of tube generally used by amateurs for long distance continuous wave telegraphy.

From The Radio Amateur's Hand Book by Collins, A. Frederick (Archie Frederick)