beam 1 of 2

as in ray
a narrow sharply defined line of light radiating from an object we'll need a flashlight that casts a broader beam in order to really see anything

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beam

2 of 2

verb

Examples Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of beam
Noun
State police said multiple traffic signs and about 20 feet of metal beam guardrail were struck during the collision. Justin Muszynski, Hartford Courant, 7 Jan. 2025 Jod surmised that the Onyx Cinder would be allowed through, so the frigate switched on a tractor beam and reeled the kids in. Matt Webb Mitovich, TVLine, 7 Jan. 2025
Verb
These satellites beam data down to receivers on the ground, allowing people to access the internet. Paul Du Quenoy, Newsweek, 9 Jan. 2025 Based on where their shot wound up in virtual space, a light beamed from the ceiling, named Skymark, shows them where to place the ball. Jacob Feldman, Sportico.com, 7 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for beam 
Recent Examples of Synonyms for beam
Noun
  • Heavy snow could in turn make temperatures feel even colder, since fallen snow both absorbs and reflects the sun's rays.
    Rachel Treisman, NPR, 2 Jan. 2025
  • For stunning sunrise views, plan an early morning trip to the top of Cadillac Mountain, which is said to be the first place in the country where the sun's rays touch land.
    Evie Carrick, Travel + Leisure, 1 Jan. 2025
Verb
  • Instead of just talking about inclusion, show it by giving everyone space to shine and actually listen.
    Expert Panel®, Forbes, 13 Jan. 2025
  • Next to the salty, buttery walnuts, the batter really shined.
    Karla Walsh, Better Homes & Gardens, 13 Jan. 2025
Verb
  • The first photo shows Margera and Phoenix grinning while on a racing car ride, with Phoenix pretending to drive the vehicle.
    Emma Kershaw, People.com, 14 Jan. 2025
  • By Monica Hunter-Hart, Forbes Staff When Justin Baldoni emerged grinning from a black van during a break from the rain at the Aug. 6 premiere of It Ends with Us in New York City, his co-star Blake Lively was nowhere to be seen.
    Monica Hunter-Hart, Forbes, 7 Jan. 2025
Verb
  • His second story collection, Chemical Valley, won the Alistair MacLeod Short Fiction Prize, received glowing reviews, and was a finalist for the Thomas Raddall Atlantic Fiction Award and the ReLit Award.
    Nicola Davison, Hazlitt, 10 Jan. 2025
  • In some shots, embers can still be seen glowing amid the wreckage.
    Jake Kanter, Deadline, 10 Jan. 2025
Verb
  • Photos from the event showed Trump and Jill Biden speaking to each other and smiling, an unexpected interaction between political foes.
    Marina Pitofsky, USA TODAY, 15 Jan. 2025
  • The second image included a sleeping Carter, while the final photo was of the newborn baby smiling as she was swaddled in a floral blanket.
    Charna Flam, People.com, 15 Jan. 2025
Verb
  • That shared experience of laughing together helps both of us find relaxation.
    Amanda Schupak, New York Times, 13 Jan. 2025
  • Others immediately call their sisters, leaving the girls—and TikTok audiences—laughing.
    Daniel R. Depetris, Newsweek, 10 Jan. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Beam.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/beam. Accessed 21 Jan. 2025.

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