# attenuation

/əˌtɛnjuˈeɪʃən/ (US) · /ɐtˌɛnjuːˈeɪʃən/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/attenuation
Updated: 2026-05-25

## Definition

the process of making something weaker or less strong. In science, it often describes how a signal or light gets weaker as it travels through a material.

For teachers: the reduction in the strength or intensity of a signal, wave, or physical property as it passes through a medium. Often used in technical contexts to describe the loss of energy or power during transmission.

## Examples

- The signal suffered from high attenuation over the long cable.
- Engineers must account for signal attenuation when designing the network to ensure data remains clear over long distances.
- The study measured the attenuation of seismic waves as they passed through different layers of the Earth's crust, providing critical data for mapping geological structures.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.