brainwave

noun
UK /ˈbreɪnweɪv/
US /ˈbreɪnweɪv/

A brainwave is a quick, smart idea that pops into your head.

I had a brainwave about how to fix my broken toy.

SYNONYMS

ideainspirationinsightflash of geniusthought

RELATED WORDS

brainmindthoughtideaimagination

OTHER MEANINGS

2. A pattern of electrical activity in the brain that can be measured by a machine.

The doctor used a special machine to record the brainwaves while she slept.

3. A sudden clever solution to a problem.

His brainwave saved the team hours of work.

4. A quick electrical signal sent between brain cells.

Scientists study brainwaves to learn how the brain works.