wavelength

noun

wave·​length ˈwāv-ˌleŋ(k)th 

1

: the distance in the line of advance of a wave from any one point to the next point of corresponding phase

2

: a particular course or line of thought especially as related to mutual understanding

two people on different wavelengths

Examples of wavelength in a Sentence

Light and sound have different wavelengths.

Recent Examples on the Web

Raman spectroscopy is a technique of chemical analysis that provides detailed information about a substance by using light – a wide range of laser wavelengths – to interact with its chemical bonds. —New Atlas, 16 Oct. 2024

Red wavelengths are most common to boost collagen while blue wavelengths can combat acne. —Mason Leib, ABC News, 10 Oct. 2024

Finding an effective combination of materials and structures to minimize visibility to particular wavelengths of radar from particular directions is a tricky and complex discipline with many tradeoffs. —David Hambling, Forbes, 8 Oct. 2024

There are different and varied light wavelengths that enter the eye from outdoor versus indoor exposures. —Gary Stix, Scientific American, 1 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1850, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Kids Definition

wavelength

noun

wave·​length ˈwāv-ˌleŋ(k)th 

1

: the distance (as from crest to crest) in the line of advance of a wave from any one point to the next corresponding point

2

: a certain line of thought or behavior that reveals a common understanding

coworkers who are on the same wavelength

Medical Definition

wavelength

noun

wave·​length -ˌleŋ(k)th 

: the distance in the line of advance of a wave from any one point to the next point of corresponding phase

—symbol λ