noun Uncommon

wavelength

WAYV-lehngth

Wavelength (noun) means the physical distance between two matching points of a wave, such as crest to crest. Example: “Radio waves have a much longer wavelength than visible light.”

noun

The physical distance between two matching points of a wave, such as crest to crest.

"Radio waves have a much longer wavelength than visible light."

Informally, someone's general way of thinking, especially in the phrase "on the same wavelength."

"They clicked instantly — completely on the same wavelength."

How to use wavelength

Learner’s notes

In plain EnglishThe distance measure of a wave in physics, or figuratively, being in sync with how someone thinks.

Common pairings

on the same wavelength radio wavelength

Word forms

wavelengths plural

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Fill the gap

Can you complete this real example?

Radio waves have a much longer _____ than visible light.

Etymology

A straightforward compound of "wave" and "length," coined for physics and later extended figuratively to describe how well two people's thinking aligns.

Frequently asked questions

What does “wavelength” mean?

The word “wavelength” means the physical distance between two matching points of a wave, such as crest to crest. In plain terms, the distance measure of a wave in physics, or figuratively, being in sync with how someone thinks.

How do you pronounce “wavelength”?

“Wavelength” is pronounced WAYV-lehngth (/ˈweɪvˌlɛŋ(k)θ/ in IPA).

How do you use “wavelength” in a sentence?

Here is “wavelength” used in a sentence: “Radio waves have a much longer wavelength than visible light.”

What part of speech is “wavelength”?

“Wavelength” is a noun.

Is “wavelength” a common word?

“Wavelength” is an uncommon word in modern English.

How many meanings does “wavelength” have?

“Wavelength” has 2 distinct senses listed in this dictionary. The most common is: the physical distance between two matching points of a wave, such as crest to crest.