Entrainment Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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entrainment

[ɪnˈtreɪnmənt ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

rhythm

The synchronization of a person's biological rhythms with external cues, such as music, light, or temperature changes.

Synonyms

alignment, harmony, synchronization.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
entrainment	Entrainment often refers to the synchronization of rhythms, such as biological rhythms with external cues. It is used in scientific and musical contexts. The circadian rhythms of the participants showed clear signs of entrainment to the light-dark cycle In music therapy, entrainment is used to help patients by matching rhythms to their emotional state
synchronization	Synchronization refers to events occurring at the same time or rate. Technological, production, and communication scenarios often require precise synchronization. We achieved synchronization between the video and audio tracks The dancers performed with perfect synchronization
alignment	Alignment is used when things are brought into a straight line or proper arrangement. It is common in business, mechanical, and strategic contexts. The team worked hard to ensure alignment of their goals with the company's vision Proper alignment of car wheels is crucial for safe driving
harmony	Harmony is about a pleasing arrangement of parts, often used in music and personal interactions to describe compatibility or a lack of conflict. The choir's voices were in perfect harmony They lived in harmony despite their differences

Examples of usage

The entrainment of circadian rhythms to the light-dark cycle is essential for maintaining a healthy sleep-wake cycle.
Individuals with irregular sleep patterns may benefit from using light therapy for entrainment.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

physics

The process of adjusting the frequency of an oscillator to match the frequency of a periodic force external to the system.

Synonyms

adjustment, matching, synchronization.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
entrainment	Entrainment is often used in scientific or technical contexts, particularly when discussing the synchronization of rhythms or processes. It is commonly found in studies related to biology, neuroscience, and physics. The researchers studied the entrainment of circadian rhythms in different light conditions. Entrainment of heartbeats with rhythmic music can have therapeutic effects.
synchronization	Synchronization is frequently used in contexts related to time and coordination. It is especially relevant when discussing activities or processes that need to happen at the same rate or time. It has broad applications, ranging from technology and communication to teamwork and performances. The dancers practiced repeatedly to ensure perfect synchronization of their movements. Synchronization of clocks is crucial for GPS systems to work accurately.
adjustment	Adjustment is more commonly used in everyday language and involves modifying or adapting something to a new condition or environment. It has a broader application and can refer to minor or major changes. He made some adjustments to the machine to improve its performance. After moving to a new city, it took her a while to make the necessary adjustments to her daily routine.
matching	Matching is often used when discussing the process of pairing or fitting two or more things together in terms of similarity or compatibility. This can be applied to colors, patterns, qualities, or behaviors. She spent hours matching the pieces of the puzzle. Their skills were well-matched for the job requirements.

Examples of usage

Entrainment is commonly observed in systems involving pendulums and waves.
The phenomenon of entrainment is crucial in the study of resonance and oscillation.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

Entrainment often occurs in nature, such as the synchronization of fireflies flashing their lights in unison.
In music, entrainment can help musicians to stay in rhythm with one another, enhancing group performance.

Psychology

Research shows that when people listen to rhythmic music, their hearts can synchronize with the tempo, demonstrating entrainment in physiology.
This process also plays a role in mood regulation, where people may feel uplifted through shared rhythmic experiences.

Technology

In the field of neuroscience, entrainment is studied to understand how brain waves synchronize with visual or auditory stimuli.
Technologies like metronomes utilize entrainment principles to help musicians keep time consistently.

Pop Culture

In dance and music videos, entrainment is a visual component, where dancers often mirror each other's movements.
Popular songs often rely on rhythmic entrainment to enhance engagement and encourage listeners to dance along.

Origin of 'entrainment'

Main points about word origin

Derived from the French word 'entraîner', which means 'to pull in' or 'to take along'.
First used in English in the context of physics and psychology in the late 19th century.

The word 'entrainment' originated from the French word 'entrainer', meaning 'to pull or draw along'. It first appeared in English in the early 20th century, primarily used in the fields of biology and physics to describe the synchronization or alignment of rhythms or frequencies. The concept of entrainment has since been studied extensively in various scientific disciplines, including circadian biology, physics, and engineering.