Word
wavelength
Phoneticswave·length, stress on the first syllable
US/ˈweɪvˌɫɛŋθ/
UK/wˈeɪvlɛŋθ/
Definitions
01physics/science
B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun Science Technical
n. the distance between two peaks of a wave, like light or sound.
n. the distance between successive crests or troughs of a wave, particularly of electromagnetic radiation or sound.
“Different colours of light have different wavelengths.”
“The telescope is designed to detect infrared radiation at a specific wavelength that is normally invisible to the human eye.”
Usage
Often used with the preposition 'at'.
02understanding each other
B2 · Upper Intermediate Countable noun Informal
n. a way of thinking or a set of ideas that you share with someone else.
n. a state of agreement or mutual understanding regarding ideas, feelings, or philosophy.
“We work well together because we are on the same wavelength.”
“It was refreshing to meet a business partner who was on the same wavelength regarding the long-term sustainability of the project.”
Usage
Almost always used in the phrase 'on the same wavelength'.
Collocations
Common phrases and expressions where native English speakers use the word “wavelength” in context.
Real-World Examples
“Radio waves have wavelengths much longer than what human eyes can see.” “The team also observed another strange pattern: The dot's light was extremely bright, except below certain wavelengths, where the light completely disappeared.” Etymology
From wave + length.
Etymology adapted from Wiktionary, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.
Synonyms
Domain
- Exam level
- CambridgeCambridgeCambridge English QualificationsThe exam suite from Cambridge University Press & Assessment, from A1 Movers up to C2 Proficiency. The benchmark names double as CEFR labels.B2 FirstIELTSIELTSInternational English Language Testing SystemThe 0–9 band test co-owned by the British Council, IDP, and Cambridge. Used for university entry, work, and migration.5.5–6.5TOEFL iBTTOEFL iBTTest of English as a Foreign Language, Internet-Based TestETS's academic English test, the standard route for US university admissions. Scored 0–120, with a 1–6 scale since 2026.1–6 scale: 4.0–4.572–94TOEICTOEICTest of English for International CommunicationETS's workplace English test, big in Japan and Korea. Listening & Reading scores 10–990 and tops out at C1.785–944
- Frequency
- Frequent
- Level
- B2 · Upper Intermediate
- Updated
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