undulatory theory

American  

noun

Physics.

1. wave theory.

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Etymology

Origin of undulatory theory

First recorded in 1795–1805

Example Sentences

But in modern investigation this is distinctly not the case; Darwin's theory, for example, like the undulatory theory, has been a motive power and not an anodyne.

From Fragments of science, V. 1-2 by Tyndall, John

His total ignorance of science may perhaps excuse him for having admitted into the "Review" Brougham's intemperate article on the undulatory theory of light, a discovery which has immortalized the name of Dr. Young.

From Personal Recollections, from Early Life to Old Age, of Mary Somerville by Somerville, Mary

This result seemed to favour the undulatory theory; but the objection urged by Newton that rays of light do not bend round obstacles, like waves of sound, still held its ground.

From Heroes of Science: Physicists by Garnett, William

Today, the evidences of modern science are overwhelmingly in favor of the undulatory theory of heat.

From Joseph Smith as Scientist A Contribution to Mormon Philosophy by Widtsoe, John Andreas

He was one of the few men who championed Fresnel during the controversy which raged at the time when the undulatory theory of light was first announced.

From A History of the Nineteenth Century, Year by Year Volume Two (of Three) by Emerson, Edwin