Amplitude: meaning, definitions and examples

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amplitude

 

[ ˌæm.plɪˈtjuːd ]

Noun
Context #1 | Noun

scientific measurement

Amplitude refers to the maximum extent of a vibration or oscillation, measured from the position of equilibrium. In physics, it is a critical factor in the study of waves, representing the height of a wave measured from its resting position. The greater the amplitude, the more energy is carried by the wave. Amplitude can apply to any form of wave, including sound waves, light waves, and electromagnetic waves. It is an essential concept in fields like acoustics and electronics.

Synonyms

extent, magnitude, range, size.

Examples of usage

  • The amplitude of the sound wave was loud enough to break glass.
  • In a sine wave, the amplitude determines the intensity of the signal.
  • The researchers measured the amplitude of the seismic waves.
  • Higher amplitude often indicates a stronger signal in communication systems.

Translations

Translations of the word "amplitude" in other languages:

🇵🇹 amplitude

🇮🇳 परिमाण

🇩🇪 Amplitude

🇮🇩 amplitudo

🇺🇦 амплітуда

🇵🇱 amplituda

🇯🇵 振幅

🇫🇷 amplitude

🇪🇸 amplitud

🇹🇷 amplitüd

🇰🇷 진폭

🇸🇦 السعة

🇨🇿 amplituda

🇸🇰 amplitúda

🇨🇳 振幅

🇸🇮 amplituda

🇮🇸 amplitúð

🇰🇿 амплитуда

🇬🇪 ამპლიტუდა

🇦🇿 amplituda

🇲🇽 amplitud

Etymology

The word 'amplitude' originates from the Latin term 'amplitudo', which is derived from 'amplius', meaning 'more spacious' or 'broader'. The usage of the word in a scientific context, particularly regarding waves and vibrations, started in the early 19th century. It gained prominence with the development of wave theory and advancements in acoustics and electromagnetism. Over time, 'amplitude' has transcended its original meanings, becoming a fundamental concept in various scientific disciplines, including physics, engineering, and even mathematics, where it represents the distance from a wave's equilibrium to its peak. The term has broadened its usage to describe aspects of signals, spaces, and other measurable phenomena in diverse contexts.

Word Frequency Rank

With rank #4,847, this word represents useful upper-intermediate vocabulary. Understanding and using it will help you express more complex ideas effectively.