noun
brainwave
noun
1
A sudden clever idea or inspiration.
"He had a brainwave and fixed the bug in minutes."
2
A rhythmic pattern of electrical activity in the brain, as measured by an EEG.
"The device tracks brainwave activity during sleep."
How to Use Brainwave
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishEither a flash of inspiration, or the measurable electrical activity of the brain.
UK vs US
The "sudden good idea" sense is more common in British English; Americans more often say "brainstorm."
Common pairings
have a brainwave
brainwave activity
Word Forms
brainwaves plural
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Fill the Gap
Can you complete this real example?
He had a _____ and fixed the bug in minutes.