SPECTRUM


Meaning of SPECTRUM in English

n. (pl. spectra) 1 the band of colours, as seen in a rainbow etc., arranged in a progressive series according to their refrangibility or wavelength. 2 the entire range of wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation. 3 a an image or distribution of parts of electromagnetic radiation arranged in a progressive series according to wavelength. b this as characteristic of a body or substance when emitting or absorbing radiation. 4 a similar image or distribution of energy, mass, etc., arranged according to frequency, charge, etc. 5 the entire range or a wide range of anything arranged by degree or quality etc. 6 (in full ocular spectrum) an after-image. spectrum (or spectral) analysis chemical analysis by means of a spectroscope.

[ L, = image, apparition f. specere look ]

Concise Oxford English dictionary.      Краткий оксфордский словарь английского языка.