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. 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)

wavelength

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

When illuminated by the microscope's halogen lamp and analyzed through a spectrometer, the light separates into different wavelengths.

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One obstacle, however, is that the wavelengths of light needed to probe 2D materials are far larger than the materials themselves, which are thinner than a human hair.

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The wavelengths at which the sunlight is absorbed give away which molecules are present in the atmosphere and how high above the surface they are.

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Nanohertz means wave periods of months to years, with wavelengths of several light-years.

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The emitted light had more intensity in red wavelengths and less intensity in blue wavelengths, which is better for sleep and eye health, according to the researchers.

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Related Words

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