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.
The observatory has studied an array of cosmic objects across multiple wavelengths of light for nearly 22 years. Ashley Strickland, CNN Money, 3 July 2026 In other words, the wavelengths of light emanating from these sources were being stretched as those wavelengths traveled toward us. Robert Lea, Space.com, 3 July 2026 The second, MiDAR, is an active multispectral sensing system that shoots multiple wavelengths of light through the water column to illuminate the otherwise dark ocean depths. Mrigakshi Dixit, Interesting Engineering, 3 July 2026 Costner, to me, has always been an actor of limited emotional range, and a movie star whose charisma and appeal doesn’t really hit my personal cinematic wavelength. Alison Foreman, IndieWire, 3 July 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

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Wavelength.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wavelength. Accessed 6 Jul. 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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