continuous wave

[ kuhn-tin-yoo-uhs weyv ]

nounTelecommunications.
  1. an electromagnetic wave of constant amplitude and frequency: used to carry information by being modulated, as in radio or television, or by being interrupted as in radiotelegraphy. Abbreviation: CW

adjective
  1. Also continuous-wave . noting a machine or device that functions through a constant and controlled output of waves, as of light from a laser, sound from an ultrasound, or radio energy from radar. Abbreviation: CW

Origin of continuous wave

1
First recorded in 1910–15

Dictionary.com Unabridged Based on the Random House Unabridged Dictionary, © Random House, Inc. 2024

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