wave theory

noun

: a theory in physics: light is transmitted from luminous bodies to the eye and other objects by an undulatory movement

called also undulatory theory

Examples of wave theory in a Sentence

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Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
That observation offers a key piece of evidence in support of the chorus wave theory, Horne writes. — Sara Hashemi, Smithsonian Magazine, 3 Feb. 2025 On July 4, 2012, scientists at the world’s largest and most powerful particle accelerator, located 328 feet below the France-Switzerland border outside Geneva, announced that the existence of the Higgs boson — a wave theory first proposed in 1964 — had been proven. — Michelle Tchea, Travel + Leisure, 1 June 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1833, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of wave theory was in 1833

Rhymes for wave theory

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wave system
wave theory
wave train
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“Wave theory.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/wave%20theory. Accessed 28 Mar. 2025.

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Medical Definition

wave theory

noun
: a theory in physics: light is transmitted from luminous bodies to the eye and other objects by an undulatory movement

called also undulatory theory

More from Merriam-Webster on wave theory

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about wave theory

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