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.

Phrases and idioms:

spectrum (or spectral) analysis chemical analysis by means of a spectroscope.

Etymology: L, image, apparition f. specere look

Oxford English vocab.      Оксфордский английский словарь.