wavelength

American  

[weyv-lengkth, -length, -lenth] / ˈweɪvˌlɛŋkθ, -ˌlɛŋθ, -ˌlɛnθ /

Or wave length

noun

1. Physics. the distance, measured in the direction of propagation of a wave, between two successive points in the wave that are characterized by the same phase of oscillation.

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idioms

1. on the same wavelength, in sympathy or rapport.

   We seemed to be on the same wavelength from the moment we met.

wavelength British  

/ ˈweɪvˌlɛŋθ /

noun

1.  λ.  the distance, measured in the direction of propagation, between two points of the same phase in consecutive cycles of a wave

2. the wavelength of the carrier wave used by a particular broadcasting station

3. informal having similar views, feelings, or thoughts (as someone else)

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wavelength Scientific  

/ wāv′lĕngkth′ /

1. The distance between one peak or crest of a wave and the next peak or crest. It is equal to the speed of the wave divided by its frequency, and to the speed of a wave times its period.

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wavelength Cultural  

1. The distance between crests (or troughs) of a wave.

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Etymology

Origin of wavelength

First recorded in 1855–60; wave + length

Example Sentences

In astronomy, calling something "very red" means the object emits most of its light at long wavelengths.

From Science Daily

The night sensor works by observing the Earth not only in visible wavelengths but also in infrared, which reveals radiant heat energy.

From New York Times

As it happened, Trump found that he and they were very much on the same wavelength.

From Salon

What’s more, the lack of dust would have allowed the stars to shine more brightly than comparable stars today, and at the bluer wavelengths seen by JWST.

From Science Magazine

But Adler tries to get the audience onto her wavelength, building their confidence by reminding them, "All cooking really requires is perception, practice and patience."

From Salon

Related Words

• acumen
• intuition
• judgment
• observation
• understanding
• vision
• wisdom