wavelength

or wave length

[ weyv-lengkth, -length, -lenth ]

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.

wavelength

/ ˈweɪvˌlɛŋθ /

noun

1. the distance, measured in the direction of propagation, between two points of the same phase in consecutive cycles of a wave λ
2. the wavelength of the carrier wave used by a particular broadcasting station
3. on someone's wavelength or on the same wavelength informal.
   having similar views, feelings, or thoughts (as someone else)

wavelength

/ 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.

wavelength

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

Word History and Origins

Origin of wavelength¹

First recorded in 1855–60; wave + length

Idioms and Phrases

Idioms

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

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

Example Sentences

Plants are green because such wavelengths of light help it keep a consistent vacuum on the electromagnetic energy it slurps from the sun.

From Salon

Borzykin is part of a volleyball group of Russians, Belarusians and Ukrainians and says they are "all on the same wavelength".

From BBC

As they collide, light is emitted at various wavelengths, creating colourful displays in the sky.

From BBC

Light that reaches our telescopes ranges in wavelength from long radio waves to energetic gamma rays.

From Salon

“In one animated recording session, you might go through 10 or even 15 scenes. The emotional wavelengths you’re putting the actor through can be very broad, and that can be exhausting.”

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

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