Spectra

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /ˈspɛktɹə/

Definitions

1. A variety of electromagnetic waves or frequencies emitted from a point source
2. A graphical depiction showcasing different wavelengths or energy levels in a particular medium
3. The collection of different electromagnetic wave components emitted or reflected by a source ; a visual representation illustrating the distribution of light or energy across wavelengths

Etymology: "Spectra" is the Latin plural of "spectrum," which comes from "specere," meaning "to look at," so the original sense was something seen or an appearance. Isaac Newton gave the word its scientific meaning when he used it for the band of colours produced when white light passes through a prism.

Synonyms: ranges, arrays