RAY, n. [L. radius.] 1. a line of light, or the right line supposed to be described by a particle of light. a collection of parallel rays constitutes a beam; a collection of diverging or converging rays, a pencil.The mixed solar beam contains, 1st. calorific rays, producing heat and expansion, but not vision and color; 2d. colorific rays, producing vision and color, but not heat nor expansion; 3d. chimical rays, producing certain effects on the composition of bodies, but neither heat, expansion, vision or color; 4th. a power producing magnetism, but whether a distinct or associated power, is not determined. It seems to be associated with the violet, more than with the other rays.2. Figuratively, a beam of intellectual light.3. Light; luster.The air sharpen'd his visual ray.4. In botany, the outer part or circumference of a compound radiate flower.5. In ichthyology, a bony or cartilaginous ossicle in the fins of fishes, serving to support the membrane.6. A plant, [lolium.]7. Ray, for array. [Not in use.]Pencil of rays, a number of rays of light issuing from a point and diverging.RAY, n. A fish; a common name for the species of the genus Raia, including the skate, thornback, torpedo, stingray, &c. RAY, v.t 1. To streak; to mark with long lines.2. To foul; to beray. [Not in use.]3. To array. [Not in use.]4. To shoot forth.
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