Pronunciation

/ˈwʌvˌleɪd/

Definitions

• Noun: In physics and electromagnetism, a measure of the periodicity of a wave, typically expressed in meters (m) or cycles per unit distance (e.g., cycles per meter, Hz). For example: “The radio signal has a long wavelength.”
• Adjective: Characteristic of a wave’s length; referring to the distance between two corresponding points on successive waves. For example: “The microwave oven operates at a shorter wavelength than visible light.”

Phrases

• “Wavelength of light” refers to the specific length of light waves in the electromagnetic spectrum.
• “Long/Short wavelength” describes waves with large/small distances between peaks or troughs.
• “Matching wavelengths” is when two waves have a similar frequency, resulting in constructive interference.

Example Sentences

• Noun: “The scientists adjusted their equipment to match the wavelength of the laser.”
• Adjective: “The infrared camera can detect heat signatures at longer wavelengths.”
• Comparative Form: “Visible light has a shorter wavelength than radio waves.”

Synonyms

• Frequency (in the context of waves)
• Period
• Wave length
• Wavenumber
• Cycle length

Antonyms

• Short wave (for longer wavelengths)
• Long wave (for shorter wavelengths)