The reciprocal of the wavelength, λ, or the number of waves per unit length along the direction of propagation. The SI unit is m-1, but a commonly used unit is cm-1. Symbols ν ˜ in a vacuum, σ in a medium.
Sources:
Green Book, 2nd ed., p. 30 (https://goldbook.iupac.org/files/pdf/green_book_2ed.pdf)
PAC, 1985, 57, 105. 'Names, symbols, definitions and units of quantities in optical spectroscopy (Recommendations 1984)' on page 109 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac198557010105)
PAC, 1996, 68, 2223. 'Glossary of terms used in photochemistry (IUPAC Recommendations 1996)' on page 2283 (https://doi.org/10.1351/pac199668122223)