X|ray

X|ray «EHKS _RAY», noun.

U.S. a code name for the letter x, used in transmitting radio messages.

X ray,

1. an electromagnetic ray having an extremely short wavelength that can go through substances that ordinary light cannot penetrate; roentgen ray. X rays are formed when a high-speed stream of electrons strikes a target, usually of metal, in a special kind of vacuum tube. X rays are used to locate breaks in bones, bullets lodged in the body, and other particles and malfunctions, and to diagnose and treat certain diseases.

2. a picture made by means of X rays.

╂[half-translation of obsolete German X-Strahlen plural < X, in sense of “unknown” + Strahl ray, beam]

Usage X ray is usually written with a capital X. It is not hyphenated as a noun, but it is as a verb or adjective: »

to X-ray the chest, an X-ray examination.

X-ray «EHKS _RAY», verb, adjective.

–v.t.

1. to examine, photograph, or treat with X rays: »

The doctor X-rayed my knee for broken bones.

2. to subject to very close scrutiny; examine minutely: »

The Republicans X-rayed the charge for legitimate political dynamite, and the Democrats prayed that it would pass (Manchester Guardian Weekly).

–v.i.

to use X rays: »

If…a doctor suspects tuberculosis, he may X-ray (Time).

–adj.

1. of or having to do with X rays.

2. by X rays: »

an X-ray examination of one's teeth.