radiation
UK: ˌreɪdiˈeɪʃən | US: ˌreɪdiˈeɪʃən
n. the emission of energy as electromagnetic waves or as moving subatomic particles
n. the process of radiating energy in the form of waves or particles
n. (biology) the divergence of components from a central axis or point
The word radiation traces back to the Latin radius, which originally referred to the spoke of a wheel but later extended to mean "ray of light" due to the visual similarity. The suffix -ation was added to denote the process of emitting rays, reflecting its scientific and biological applications. The term evolved to describe energy emission in physics and the spread of structures in biology, maintaining its core logic of outward movement from a central source.
Solar radiation provides the energy necessary for life on Earth.
The patient underwent radiation therapy to treat the tumor.
Geiger counters detect harmful levels of radiation.
The radiation of heat from the fireplace warmed the room.
In botany, leaf radiation refers to the arrangement of leaves around a stem.