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

Once implanted, designers could coordinate them to move independently or together based on specific light wavelengths. —Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 2 Apr. 2025

Redder parts of the image represent longer wavelengths while more purple parts of the image represent shorter wavelengths. —Monisha Ravisetti, Space.com, 1 Apr. 2025

However, wavelengths beyond the visible are also critical as are optical properties like polarization. —Sabbir Rangwala, Forbes.com, 28 Mar. 2025

Spectral images aim for this higher fidelity by recording light's intensity not just in broad RGB categories, but across dozens or even hundreds of narrow, specific wavelength bands. —ArsTechnica, 28 Mar. 2025

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