multipath

Multipath describes the phenomenon where a transmitted signal reaches its destination via multiple routes, typically because of reflection, refraction, or scattering off surfaces and obstacles.

This is a key concern in radio communications, GPS systems, and wireless networking, where signals bouncing off buildings or terrain can arrive at slightly different times, causing interference or distortion.

Engineers design systems to either mitigate multipath effects or exploit them, as in some modern antenna technologies that use multiple paths to improve signal strength.