“Laser” is an acronym for “light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation,” and refers to a mechanism for emitting electromagnetic radiation that typically is light, via the process of stimulated emission. Bell Labs filed a patent application for the original laser in 1958. Similar work was underway at Columbia University. Bell Labs was awarded a patent in 1960, beginning a 28-year legal action. Lasers are used in consumer electronics, the military, science and medicine, entertainment, and law enforcement.