electromagnetic wave

noun

: one of the waves that are propagated by simultaneous periodic variations of electric and magnetic field intensity and that include radio waves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays

Examples of electromagnetic wave in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
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The earliest modems used the same scheme, which relies on electromagnetic waves to represent digital information over an analog channel. Dan Goodin, Ars Technica, 23 Jan. 2025 Scientists have detected a strange space phenomenon where bursts of electromagnetic waves sound like birds chirping when converted into audio signals, according to a study. Shannon McDonagh, Newsweek, 22 Jan. 2025 These tools emit electromagnetic waves that travel into the soil and bounce back signals that experts use to interpret ground density, soil composition, and even empty spaces. Andrew Paul, Popular Science, 16 Jan. 2025 These tests may include: X-ray: This imaging test uses a form of radiation called electromagnetic waves to take pictures of structures inside the body. Laura Schober, Health, 16 Jan. 2025 See all Example Sentences for electromagnetic wave 

Word History

First Known Use

1882, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of electromagnetic wave was in 1882

Dictionary Entries Near electromagnetic wave

Cite this Entry

“Electromagnetic wave.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/electromagnetic%20wave. Accessed 2 Feb. 2025.

Kids Definition

electromagnetic wave

noun
: a wave (as a radio wave, wave of visible light, or X-ray) that consists of an associated electric and magnetic effect and travels at the speed of light

Medical Definition

electromagnetic wave

noun
: one of the waves that are propagated by simultaneous periodic variations of electric and magnetic field intensity and that include radio waves, infrared, visible light, ultraviolet, X-rays, and gamma rays

More from Merriam-Webster on electromagnetic wave

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