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

According to the Mayo Clinic, most melanomas are caused by exposure to ultraviolet light and usually affect skin on the face, arms, back and legs. —Gabrielle Rockson, People.com, 20 Dec. 2024

Melanoma is a type of skin cancer that is often caused by exposure to ultraviolet light, which can be found in sunlight as well as tanning lamps and beds, according to Mayo Clinic. —Edward Segarra, USA TODAY, 19 Dec. 2024

Numerous other challenges, such as the planet’s exposure to ultraviolet radiation, deadly climate, low gravity, and lack of water may all prevent humans from permanently living there. —Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 17 Dec. 2024

Plants produce resveratrol to help fight against fungal infection, ultraviolet radiation, stress, and injury. —Barbie Cervoni, Health, 23 Nov. 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