1. The natural patterns of vibration or oscillation in a physical system, each characterized by a specific frequency and shape.
Usage: technical; physics; engineering; plural of eigenmode

Examples

• The eigenmodes of a vibrating string determine the frequencies at which it resonates.
• Engineers analyze the eigenmodes of a bridge to predict how it will respond to wind and traffic.
• Each eigenmode of the system corresponds to a unique eigenvalue in the mathematical model.
• The lowest eigenmodes have the longest wavelengths and lowest frequencies.
• Acoustic eigenmodes in a concert hall affect how sound is distributed throughout the space.
• The eigenmodes of a drum head create the characteristic tones we hear when it is struck.