shortwaves

Noun

shortwave (plural shortwaves)

1. An electromagnetic wave with a relatively short wavelength; specifically, one with a wavelength generally between 10 and 100 metres, corresponding to a frequency between 3 and 30 megahertz.
   • Shortwaves are longer than microwaves.

   Synonyms:

   decameter wave, SW

   1. Downward radiation in the shortwave (noun sense 1) frequency range which enters the Earth's atmosphere.
      • Shortwave fadeout data for the period 1955 through 1969 were analyzed and correlated with solar flare data for the same period. […] Some doubt is cast on the quality of the shortwave fadeout data during the early part of the period considered.1973 June 28, Richard G. Hendl, Robert A. Skrivanek, “Abstract”, in Statistical Analysis of Shortwave Fadeout Occurrence for the Years 1955 to 1969 (Environmental Research Papers; no. 452), L. G....
   2. A waveband comprising radio waves in the shortwave (noun sense 1) frequency range, especially when used in broadcasting.
      • Many stations broadcast on shortwaves.
   3. In full shortwave radio: a radio which is able to receive radio waves in the shortwave (noun sense 1) waveband.
      • Finally in all the crackle and noise of the short-wave one of our men made contact with another boat.1941, John Steinbeck, chapter I, in The Log from the Sea of Cortez […], New York, N.Y.: The Viking Press, published 1951, →OCLC, page 7

See all 7 meanings of shortwave