ray meaning and definition

RAY noun

Definition of ray (noun)

1. a column of light (as from a beacon)
   • synonyms: beam, beam of light, irradiation, light beam, ray of light, shaft, shaft of light
2. a branch of an umbel or an umbelliform inflorescence
3. (mathematics) a straight line extending from a point
4. a group of nearly parallel lines of electromagnetic radiation
   • synonyms: beam, electron beam
5. the syllable naming the second (supertonic) note of any major scale in solmization
   • synonyms: re
6. any of the stiff bony spines in the fin of a fish
7. cartilaginous fishes having horizontally flattened bodies and enlarged winglike pectoral fins with gills on the underside; most swim by moving the pectoral fins

RAY verb

Definition of ray (verb)

1. emit as rays
   • "That tower rays a laser beam for miles across the sky"
2. extend or spread outward from a center or focus or inward towards a center
   • "spokes radiate from the hub of the wheel"; "This plants radiate spines in all directions"
   • synonyms: radiate
3. expose to radiation
   • "irradiate food"
   • synonyms: irradiate