radio waves

Cultural  

1. Waves at the end of the electromagnetic spectrum with the lowest frequency (less than 300 megahertz) and the longest wavelength (from a few feet to many miles). Because of their low frequency, radio waves carry very little energy compared to other electromagnetic waves. (See Planck's constant.)

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Radio waves can pass through the atmosphere and therefore are very useful for communication. Commercial, short-wave, and citizens' band radio are broadcast with radio waves, as is television.

Example Sentences

In 1886, the German physicist Heinrich Hertz demonstrated the existence of electromagnetic waves and discovered radio waves.

From The Wall Street Journal • Apr. 26, 2026

The film’s portrayal of The Jackson 5 years aims for even rosier nostalgia, evoking memories of hearing a young Michael’s voice, cascading over the radio waves and into the hearts of millions.

From Salon • Apr. 25, 2026

Shakira gently ushered Spanish into the American radio waves with 2005’s massive “Hips Don’t Lie,” then full throttle with Alejandro Sanz in their reggaeton hit “La Tortura.”

From Los Angeles Times • Mar. 18, 2026

"Faraday rotation is a similar concept, but it's electrons and magnetic fields in space interacting with radio waves."

From Science Daily • Feb. 24, 2026

All across the Congo on invisible radio waves flew the code words: The Rabbit has escaped.

From "The Poisonwood Bible" by Barbara Kingsolver