theta wave

noun

, Physiology.

1. any of the brain waves constituting theta rhythm.

Word History and Origins

Origin of theta wave¹

First recorded in 1965–70

Example Sentences

During stage 2 sleep, theta wave activity continues, interspersed with oscillations between the thalamus, a region of the brain regulating sleep, and the rest of the cortex.

From Scientific American

When grown-ups think that they are about to learn something new, their brains exhibit a pattern of activity called a theta wave.

From Wall Street Journal

The researchers hope to look at other oscillation patterns next, such as the gamma wave, which repeats itself several times faster than the theta wave.

From Science Magazine