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Word

laser

noun C1
UK /ˈleɪz.ə(ɹ)/
US /ˈleɪzɚ/

Meanings

noun

a device that produces a narrow, intense beam of light used for cutting, measuring, scanning, or pointing

laser: a device that produces a narrow, intense beam of light used for cutting, measuring, scanning, or pointing
noun

a narrow, intense beam of light produced by such a device

laser: a narrow, intense beam of light produced by such a device

Definition

A laser is a device that produces a narrow, powerful beam of light.

A laser is a machine that creates a very focused beam of light, often in a single color. Because the beam is narrow and intense, it can be aimed precisely over long distances. Lasers are used in many fields, including medicine, manufacturing, communications, and everyday electronics.

Examples

  • The technician calibrated the laser before starting the precision cut.
  • I could follow the laser as it swept across the barcode scanner window.
  • She avoided looking directly at the laser, even for a moment, during the demonstration.
  • They aligned the mirrors until the laser hit the sensor consistently from across the lab.

Common mistake

Learners sometimes say “do a laser” instead of “use a laser” or “shine a laser (beam)” when describing how it works.