Radiation

Definition

Radiation pertains to the emission of energy as electromagnetic waves or as moving subatomic particles, especially high-energy particles that cause ionization.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌreɪdiˈeɪʃən/
• Respelling: RAY-dee-AY-shun (with "RAY" as in "ray," "dee" as in "deep," "AY" as in "day," and "shun" as in "mission")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˌreɪdiˈeɪʃən/
• Respelling: RAY-dee-AY-shun (similar to American English, with "RAY" as in "ray," "dee" as in "deep," "AY" as in "day," and "shun" as in "mission")

In both dialects, "radiation" is pronounced with the primary stress on the third syllable, "AY." The pronunciation remains consistent across both American and British English, clearly articulating each part of the word with emphasis on the "AY" syllable.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin "radiare", meaning "to emit rays or beams", and the suffix "-tion", denoting an action or condition.

Derivatives

• Radiate
• Radiative
• Radioactive
• Radiologist
• Radiology

Synonyms

• Emission
• Irradiation
• Ray

Antonyms

None.

Usage

"Radiation" is a term often used in physics, medicine, and environmental science. It refers to the process and result of emitting energy, either in the form of waves or particles.

Related Terms

• Gamma rays
• X-rays
• Ionizing radiation
• Ultraviolet
• Electromagnetic spectrum

Detailed Definition

Noun

• The emission of energy in the form of waves or particles.
• Example: Radiation from the sun is responsible for life on Earth.

• The energy transmitted by radiation, as heat, light, electricity, etc.
• Example: Excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation can lead to skin cancer.

• The penetration of a medium by such energy.
• Example: The protective suit prevents radiation from entering the body.

• The process or instance of radiating or being radiated.
• Example: The nuclear reactor underwent a radiation leak last year.