spectrum

[ˈspɛktrəm]

spectrum Definition

• 1. a band of colors, as seen in a rainbow, produced by separation of the components of light by their different degrees of refraction according to wavelength.
• 2. used to classify something, or suggest that it can be classified, in terms of its position on a scale between two extreme or opposite points.

Using spectrum: Examples

Take a moment to familiarize yourself with how "spectrum" can be used in various situations through the following examples!

• Example

  The spectrum of visible light ranges from red to violet.

• Example

  Political opinions in the country span the entire spectrum from left to right.

• Example

  The disease can manifest itself in a wide spectrum of symptoms.

spectrum Synonyms and Antonyms

Synonyms for spectrum

• range
• scale
• gamut
• sweep
• span

Antonyms for spectrum

• narrow range
• limited scope

Phrases with spectrum

• autism spectrum

  a range of conditions classified as neurodevelopmental disorders characterized by social impairments, communication difficulties, and restricted, repetitive, and stereotyped patterns of behavior.

  Example

  Children with autism spectrum disorder may have difficulty with social interactions and communication.

• electromagnetic spectrum

  the range of all types of electromagnetic radiation, including radio waves, microwaves, infrared radiation, visible light, ultraviolet radiation, X-rays, and gamma rays.

  Example

  The electromagnetic spectrum is used in many fields, including telecommunications, astronomy, and medicine.

• gender spectrum

  a range of gender identities and expressions, including those that do not conform to traditional male/female binary categories.

  Example

  The concept of a gender spectrum recognizes that gender is not a simple either/or proposition.

Origins of spectrum

from Latin 'spectere', meaning 'to look at'

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Summary: spectrum in Brief

The term 'spectrum' [ˈspɛktrəm] refers to a range of colors or positions on a scale between two extremes. It can describe the full range of something, such as political opinions or disease symptoms. 'Spectrum' also appears in phrases like 'autism spectrum' and 'gender spectrum,' which denote a range of conditions or identities. The 'electromagnetic spectrum' encompasses all types of electromagnetic radiation.