ultraviolet — having a wavelength shorter than that of visible light but longer than X-rays
Part of speech: ADJECTIVE
Definition: having a wavelength shorter than that of visible light but longer than X-rays
Pronunciation (IPA): /ˌʌltrəˈvaɪələt/
Example Sentences
- The vampire avoided ultraviolet light like it was his ex-girlfriend.
- Scientists use ultraviolet lamps to sterilize medical equipment.
- My sunscreen claims to block 99% of ultraviolet rays, but my sunburn suggests otherwise.
ultraviolet
ADJECTIVE[/ˌʌltrəˈvaɪələt/]
having a wavelength shorter than that of visible light but longer than X-rays
The hikers applied sunscreen to protect their skin from ultraviolet rays.
Ultraviolet light is just beyond violet in the visible spectrum. (ultra = beyond + violet = the violet color)
Ultraviolet rays faded as a silhouette appeared against the sunset.
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🎤Pronunciation
🌳Etymology
Origin
The word combines Latin 'ultra' (beyond) and 'violet' (purple color), referring to electromagnetic radiation beyond the visible purple end of the light spectrum. It was coined in the early 19th century to describe light wavelengths shorter than those perceived as violet by the human eye.
Breakdown
ultra- (beyond, on the other side of) + violet (purple color, from Latin violeta). The term literally describes light existing beyond the visible violet wavelengths in the electromagnetic spectrum.
🎵Rhyme
🔗Collocations
📝Examples
“The vampire avoided ultraviolet light like it was his ex-girlfriend.”
“Scientists use ultraviolet lamps to sterilize medical equipment.”
“My sunscreen claims to block 99% of ultraviolet rays, but my sunburn suggests otherwise.”
“The ozone layer protects Earth from harmful ultraviolet radiation.”
📚Related Words
Synonyms
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