infrared
1 synonym and 1 antonym for infrared, grouped by meaning and by how common each one is.
Noun — Light energy just beyond the red end of the visible spectrum, felt as heat but invisible to the eye.
Synonyms
Rare, literary or technical
Precise, but they will stand out — check the sense before using one.
thermal radiation
Synonyms by Meaning
1. noun
Light energy just beyond the red end of the visible spectrum, felt as heat but invisible to the eye.
“Night-vision goggles work by detecting infrared given off by warm bodies.”
thermal radiation
Opposites
2. adj
Relating to or using this kind of radiation.
“The camera has an infrared sensor for low-light shots.”
Opposites
How to use infrared
The word patterns that sound natural to a native speaker.
infrared camera
infrared radiation
infrared sensor
Etymology
From "infra-" ("below") + "red," describing wavelengths just below visible red light.
Full origin of infrared →Frequently asked questions
What does “infrared” mean?
The word “infrared” means light energy just beyond the red end of the visible spectrum, felt as heat but invisible to the eye. In plain terms, invisible heat-radiation light, used in remotes, night vision, and heaters.
How do you pronounce “infrared”?
“Infrared” is pronounced ihnf-ruh-REHD (/ˌɪnfɹəˈɹɛd/ in IPA).
How do you use “infrared” in a sentence?
Here is “infrared” used in a sentence: “Night-vision goggles work by detecting infrared given off by warm bodies.”
What part of speech is “infrared”?
Depending on how it is used, “infrared” can be a noun and an adjective.
Is “infrared” a common word?
“Infrared” is an uncommon word in modern English.
How many meanings does “infrared” have?
“Infrared” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: light energy just beyond the red end of the visible spectrum, felt as heat but invisible to the eye.
What is the difference between infrared and ultraviolet?
Infrared is light energy just beyond the red end of the visible spectrum, felt as heat but invisible to the eye, while ultraviolet lies beyond the opposite, violet end of the spectrum. Infrared is associated with heat, whereas ultraviolet is associated with higher-energy radiation that can cause sunburn.
Why can't humans see infrared light?
Infrared light falls just beyond the red end of the visible spectrum, meaning its wavelengths are outside the range the human eye can detect, though it can still be felt as heat.
What is infrared used for in technology?
Infrared radiation is used in technology relating to or using this kind of energy, such as infrared cameras that detect heat, remote controls, and night-vision devices.
