Spectrum

Definition

A spectrum refers to a range of different positions, opinions, or conditions. In science, it refers to the band of colors produced when light passes through a prism or interacts with a medium and spreads out according to wavelength.

Parts of Speech

• Noun

Pronunciation

American English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈspɛktrəm/
• Respelling: SPEK-trum (with "SPEK" as in "speck" and "trum" as in "drum")

British English

• IPA Pronunciation: /ˈspɛktrəm/
• Respelling: SPEK-trum (similar to American English, with "SPEK" as in "speck" and "trum" like in "drum")

In both dialects, "spectrum" is pronounced with the primary stress on the first syllable, "SPEK." The pronunciation is consistent across both American and British English, accurately reflecting the word's phonetic structure and emphasis.

Etymology

The term "spectrum" is derived from Latin, where it means 'appearance' or 'image'. It entered the English language in the early 17th century.

Derivatives

• Spectral
• Spectrometer
• Spectroscopy
• Spectrograph
• Spectroscopic

Synonyms

• Range
• Gamut
• Continuum

Antonyms

• None

Usage

"Spectrum" is used in different contexts to indicate a range or series. In physics, it denotes the distribution of energy emitted by a radiant source, as by electromagnetic waves, or seen in the rainbow.

• Example: "The political spectrum encompasses a wide range of ideologies from conservative to liberal."

Related Terms

• Band
• Scale
• Sequence

Detailed Definition

Noun

• Range: A continuum of color or abstract quantity.
• Example: "The artist's palette covered a broad spectrum of colors."

• Scientific Spectrum: In physics and chemistry, it refers to the entire range of wavelengths of electromagnetic radiation.
• Example: "The electromagnetic spectrum includes everything from radio waves to gamma rays."

• Figurative Spectrum: In a non-scientific context, it refers to a wide range of ideas, qualities, or opinions.
• Example: "Opinions on the matter ranged across a broad spectrum."