# laser

/ˈɫeɪzɝ/ (US) · /lˈeɪzɐ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/laser
Updated: 2026-08-08

## Senses

### 1. light device or beam

noun · CEFR B1

a device that produces a narrow, powerful beam of light, or the beam itself.

For teachers: a device that emits a coherent, monochromatic beam of light; also refers to the beam of radiation produced by such a device.

- The doctor used a laser to perform the delicate eye surgery.
- The laboratory technicians calibrated the laser to ensure the beam remained perfectly focused during the high-precision cutting process.

### 2. sailing boat

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

a small, light boat used for racing by one person.

For teachers: a specific class of small, one-design sailing dinghy typically used for competitive racing.

- He spent the weekend racing his Laser on the lake.
- The regatta featured a large fleet of Lasers, requiring the sailors to demonstrate exceptional tactical skill in the light winds.

### 3. to treat or cut

verb · CEFR B2

to use a laser to cut something or to treat a part of the body.

For teachers: to target, cut, or medically treat an object or tissue using a laser beam.

- She decided to have her tattoo lasered off next month.
- The surgeon lasered the damaged tissue with extreme care to avoid affecting the surrounding healthy cells.

### 4. to throw with precision

verb · CEFR C2 · Informal · Slang

to throw or kick a ball very straight and fast.

For teachers: to propel a ball or projectile with exceptional speed and accuracy, resembling the straight path of a light beam.

- The quarterback lasered the ball to the receiver for a touchdown.
- The outfielder lasered a throw to home plate, catching the runner just before he could score.

## Examples

- The doctor uses a laser to fix the patient's vision.
- The engineer used a high-powered laser to cut through the thick steel plate with extreme precision.
- Advancements in laser technology have revolutionized surgical procedures, allowing for minimally invasive techniques that significantly reduce recovery times and the risk of infection.

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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.