Beam meaning

What does “beam” mean? Definitions, examples, synonyms and opposites.

“beam” is a noun and verb with 13 meanings. Its most common meaning is: a signal transmitted along a narrow path; guides airplane pilots in darkness or bad weather.

beam

noun

  1. a signal transmitted along a narrow path; guides airplane pilots in darkness or bad weather

    Synonymsradio beam
  2. long thick piece of wood or metal or concrete, etc., used in construction

  3. a group of nearly parallel lines of electromagnetic radiation

  4. a column of light (as from a beacon)

  5. (nautical) breadth amidships

  6. the broad side of a ship

    “they sighted land on the port beam”

  7. a gymnastic apparatus used by women gymnasts

    Synonymsbalance beam

verb

  1. smile radiantly; express joy through one's facial expression

  2. emit light; be bright, as of the sun or a light

    “The sun shone bright that day”

    “The fire beamed on their faces”

    Synonymsshine
  3. express with a beaming face or smile

    “he beamed his approval”

  4. broadcast over the airwaves, as in radio or television

    “We cannot air this X-rated song”

  5. have a complexion with a strong bright color, such as red or pink

    “Her face glowed when she came out of the sauna”

  6. experience a feeling of well-being or happiness, as from good health or an intense emotion

    “She was beaming with joy”

    “Her face radiated with happiness”

Source: WordNet 3.1, Princeton University