wavelength

noun

wave·​length ˈwāv-ˌleŋ(k)th How to pronounce wavelength (audio)
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
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.
With space telescope spectrography, researchers can break down the remaining wavelengths into specific color bands, each corresponding with the elements in its atmosphere. Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 2 Apr. 2026 Designed to deliver full-body red-light therapy, the fixture has a detachable light ring that emits red and near-infrared wavelengths of 650 and 850nm. Jenny Berg, Vogue, 31 Mar. 2026 High-frequency bands above tens of gigahertz (GHz) have very short wavelengths, so even slight misalignment of a measurement target can significantly affect results. Jijo Malayil, Interesting Engineering, 31 Mar. 2026 The trailer highlights Riley’s signature blend of absurdism and agitprop aesthetic, but it’s anchored by a band of performers who seem not only fully locked into the movie’s wavelength but determined to hit their mark. Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 30 Mar. 2026 See All Example Sentences for wavelength

Word History

First Known Use

1850, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of wavelength was in 1850

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Cite this Entry

“Wavelength.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wavelength. Accessed 5 Apr. 2026.

Kids Definition

wavelength

noun
wave·​length ˈwāv-ˌleŋ(k)th How to pronounce wavelength (audio)
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 How to pronounce wavelength (audio)
: the distance in the line of advance of a wave from any one point to the next point of corresponding phase
symbol λ

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