Fictional energy weapons from Star Trek that can stun or destroy targets; or actual electronic devices that shift the phase of waves.
From 'phaser' (1960s sci-fi coinage) blending 'phase' + 'laser'. The sci-fi term was created for Star Trek. The real electronics term comes from 'phase' (a stage in a wave cycle) + '-er' (device that performs an action).
Star Trek's 'phaser' name was inspired by real physics—phase shifters are actual electronic components used in radio signals, radar, and modern wireless technology!
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