ultraviolet
Refers to electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength shorter than that of visible light but longer than X-rays. While scientifically precise, in common parlance it often evokes images of sun exposure, tanning beds, and sterilization. In a figurative or aesthetic sense, "ultraviolet" is frequently used to describe things that feel futuristic, neon, or 'beyond' the normal spectrum of perception. It carries a high-energy, electric connotation. Unlike "purple" or "violet," which are colors we can see, ultraviolet implies an invisible force that can be detected only through special equipment or its effects on the skin and materials.
💬Casual Conversation
DAVID, DID YOU REMEMBER TO BUY THAT ULTRAVIOLET WAND? CHLOE SAID THEY ARE GOOD FOR BACTERIA.
Mom, it's a UV sanitizer for my phone, not a magic wand. And it's on backorder.
Meanings
Having a wavelength shorter than that of the violet end of the visible spectrum.
"The skin is sensitive to ultraviolet radiation."
Electromagnetic radiation with a wavelength shorter than that of visible light.
"The sun emits a large amount of ultraviolet."
Collocations & Compounds
ultraviolet light
Light with a wavelength shorter than visible light but longer than X-rays.
Ultraviolet light can cause sunburn.
ultraviolet radiation
Electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths ranging from 10 nm to 400 nm.
The ozone layer protects us from harmful ultraviolet radiation.
ultraviolet rays
A synonym for ultraviolet radiation or light.
Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet rays can damage the skin.
ultraviolet index
A measure of the intensity of ultraviolet radiation from the sun.
Check the ultraviolet index before going outside on a sunny day.
ultraviolet lamp
A lamp that emits ultraviolet light, often used for sterilization or tanning.
The laboratory uses an ultraviolet lamp to sterilize equipment.
Etymology
From 'ultra-' meaning 'beyond' and 'violet', referring to the color at the end of the visible light spectrum. First coined in the early 19th century by physicist Johann Wilhelm Ritter, who discovered this radiation beyond the violet end of the spectrum when experimenting with light decomposition by a prism. It is part of the electromagnetic spectrum with wavelengths shorter than visible light but longer than X-rays.