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wavelength

/ˈweɪvleŋθ/  ·  say it: WAYV·lengkth

the distance between successive peaks of a wave

In Science & Nature

In more detail

1. (noun) the distance between two consecutive peaks or troughs of a wave

2. (noun) in radio and TV, the frequency at which a station broadcasts

3. (idiom) be on the same wavelength: to think similarly or understand each other well

Examples

• 1. Different colors of light have different wavelengths.
• 2. The radio station broadcasts on a wavelength of 95.3 FM.
• 3. We finally found a partner we were on the same wavelength with.

How to use wavelength

Wavelength has both technical and figurative uses. In physics and broadcasting, it refers to measurable wave properties. The idiom 'on the same wavelength' is informal and means people understand each other well or share similar views; the metaphor comes from radio tuning and is very common in everyday conversation.

Common phrases

• on the same wavelength
• different wavelengths
• radio wavelength
• electromagnetic wavelength
• tune to a wavelength

Synonyms

frequency · channel · transmission frequency

Word family

wavelike

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse wavelength with frequency, which are inversely related but distinct concepts in physics; also, the idiom is often written as one word ('wavelength') but should be 'on the same wavelength' as a phrase.

Nearby in Science & Nature

inertia, refraction, diffraction, frequency, conduction, convection

Keep going

How to remember the words you read · Spaced repetition, explained