infrared
infrared Lexical Profile
infrared Game Scores & Validity
• adjective
Having a wavelength just greater than that of the red end of the visible light spectrum but less than that of microwaves, typically associated with radiant heat.
"Astronomers use infrared telescopes to peer through dense clouds of cosmic dust."
Using, emitting, or sensitive to electromagnetic radiation in the infrared spectrum.
"The wildlife biologists set up an infrared camera to observe nocturnal animals without disturbing them."
• noun
The infrared region of the electromagnetic spectrum, or electromagnetic radiation falling within this wavelength range.
"Many remote controls transmit signals to electronic devices using near infrared."
• Rhymes for infrared
• Nearby Words
Word Origin & Etymology
Coined in the late 19th century by combining the Latin prefix 'infra-' (meaning 'below') with English 'red', because this radiation lies just below the frequency of visible red light on the electromagnetic spectrum.
Usage Trend
Historical frequency of usage in published text.