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

The handful of animals that sense beyond visible wavelengths?

From MarketWatch

Scientists believe hydrogen atoms emitted very faint radio waves with a wavelength of 21 cm.

From Science Daily

Using observations across infrared, optical, radio, and sub-millimeter wavelengths, the research team was able to trace both the jet and the gas being expelled from the galaxy.

From Science Daily

Our friend Harvey wears both belts and braces: 10 cameras; five range-sensing lidar units and a dozen ultrasonic parking sensors, which combine to paint a world map in multiple wavelengths.

From The Wall Street Journal

By studying polarized light at different wavelengths, the researchers were able to determine the grains' size and composition.

From Science Daily

Related Words

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