ULTRAVIOLET - Definition & Meaning for Kids

Simple definitions and word synonyms for kids.

Part of speech: Adjective

having or employing wavelengths shorter than light but longer than X-rays; lying outside the visible spectrum at its violet end

Example: ultraviolet radiation; an ultraviolet lamp

• Ultraviolet light is invisible to humans but can cause sunburns — bees can see it and use it to find flowers.
• Ultraviolet lamps sterilise surfaces and water by damaging microbial DNA, a method adopted in hospitals and labs.

Ultraviolet illumination, Ultraviolet radiation, Ultraviolet, Ultraviolet light, Uv

ultra- – A related word in the same word family.

violet – A related word in the same word family.

These related words all descended from the same ancestor thousands of years ago.