ultraviolet

adjective

ul·​tra·​vi·​o·​let ˌəl-trə-ˈvī-(ə-)lət 

1

: situated beyond the visible spectrum at its violet end

—used of radiation having a wavelength shorter than wavelengths of visible light and longer than those of X-rays

2

: relating to, producing, or employing ultraviolet radiation

ultraviolet noun

Examples of ultraviolet in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

In addition, many of the processes found to be crucial for the origin of life have been shown to require ultraviolet radiation (from the young sun), which provides energy. —Mario Livio, Scientific American, 16 Sep. 2024

Real Madrid’s setup relies on red, blue, ultraviolet and infrared light, shown at different times of day or year based on the plant’s growth status. —Jacob Feldman, Sportico.com, 7 Sep. 2024

In the Martian atmosphere, water molecules are broken down into their constituent atoms by ultraviolet energy streaming in from the sun. —Jeffrey Kluger, TIME, 6 Sep. 2024

After all, not only does collagen production decrease naturally after the age of 25, but ultraviolet rays from the sun create plenty of collagen-destroying oxidation as well, which can result in sagging, wrinkles, discoloration, and more. —Ana Morales, Vogue, 28 July 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1840, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Phrases Containing ultraviolet

• far-ultraviolet
• near-ultraviolet

Kids Definition

ultraviolet

adjective

ul·​tra·​vi·​o·​let ˌəl-trə-ˈvī-ə-lət 

1

: located beyond the visible spectrum at its violet end and having a wavelength shorter than those of visible light but longer than those of X-rays

2

: relating to, producing, or using ultraviolet radiation

ultraviolet noun

Medical Definition

ultraviolet

1 of 2 adjective

ul·​tra·​vi·​o·​let ˌəl-trə-ˈvī-(ə-)lət 

1

: situated beyond the visible spectrum at its violet end

—used of radiation having a wavelength shorter than wavelengths of visible light and longer than those of X-rays

2

: relating to, producing, or employing ultraviolet radiation

ultraviolet

2 of 2 noun

: ultraviolet radiation