What does lase mean?
To lase is to emit a narrow, focused beam of light, especially through the process used by a laser. In technical writing, the word is normally used for the stimulated emission of light, making it more specific than simply “shine” or “radiate.” It can also mean to aim or direct a laser at a target, a usage common in military, scientific, and science-fiction contexts. Although “laser” is far more frequent in ordinary speech, “lase” is useful when the action of emitting or projecting a beam is important. The pronunciation is generally /leɪz/, and the word functions as a verb; “laser” and “lasing” are related forms.
verbTo emit light by stimulated emission, especially in a laser. In figurative and informal use, to direct a laser or beam at something.
- To emit light through stimulated emission, as in a laser.
- To direct a laser or narrow beam at something.
"The device lases a narrow beam across the laboratory."
"The array lases a focused beam toward the distant target."
"In the novel, the hunter lases a red marker across the rock face."
The word “lase” was coined by borrowing a piece of the acronym “laser,” which expands to Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does lase come from?
The verb “lase” was created in the 20th century as a back-formation from “laser.” The noun “laser” is an acronym formed from the phrase “Light Amplification by Stimulated Emission of Radiation,” which describes the physical principle behind the device. The verb was coined to refer to the emission of laser light and later came to mean directing a laser beam. Its spelling and pronunciation follow the final syllable of “laser,” although the noun is normally pronounced as a two-syllable word.
Related word forms
How lase is actually used
The technical sense is standard in physics and optics. The verb is also used informally or in science fiction for directing a laser or beam, while the more common everyday expression is “laser” as a noun.
Easily confused with lase
“Lase” means to emit laser light or direct a beam, whereas “lease” is a contract granting the right to use property for a period of time.