electromagnetic wave

noun

, Physics.

1. a wave produced by the acceleration of an electric charge and propagated by the periodic variation of intensities of, usually, perpendicular electric and magnetic fields.

electromagnetic wave

noun

1. a wave of energy propagated in an electromagnetic field See also electromagnetic radiation

electromagnetic wave

1. A wave of energy consisting of electric and magnetic fields, oscillating at right angles to each other.
2. See more at electromagnetic radiation

Word History and Origins

Origin of electromagnetic wave¹

First recorded in 1905–10

Example Sentences

A 115-foot-wide copper coil dangled from the belly of the craft, sending electromagnetic waves into the earth and creating currents in rocks deep underground.

From MIT Technology Review

That frequency — the rate of oscillation of the light’s electromagnetic waves — serves as a highly precise timekeeper.

From Science News

A growing body of research over the past decade suggests that electromagnetic waves can help reverse memory loss and other effects of conditions like Alzheimer’s.

From Ozy

There are no electromagnetic waves when it comes to convection models.

From Popular-Science

Doctors at some Massachusetts assisted living facilities are getting help from Emerald, a device that uses electromagnetic waves and artificial intelligence to monitor patients remotely.

From MIT Technology Review