Alfvén wave

noun

: a transverse electromagnetic wave that propagates along the lines of force in a magnetized plasma

Word History

Etymology

after Hannes Alfvén †1995 Swedish astrophysicist

First Known Use

1956, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of Alfvén wave was in 1956

Love words?

You must — there are over 200,000 words in our free online dictionary, but you are looking for one that’s only in the Merriam-Webster Unabridged Dictionary.

Start your free trial today and get unlimited access to America's largest dictionary, with:

  • More than 250,000 words that aren't in our free dictionary
  • Expanded definitions, etymologies, and usage notes
  • Advanced search features
  • Ad free!

Dictionary Entries Near Alfvén wave

Cite this Entry

“Alfvén wave.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/Alfv%C3%A9n%20wave. Accessed 8 Nov. 2024.

Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!