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Definition of iridescence

iridescence

/ˌɪr.ɪˈdɛs.əns/
ir · i · des · cence
Adverb:iridescently
•
Plural:iridescences
•
Adjective:iridescent
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iridescence Lexical Profile

iridescence Game Scores & Validity

• noun

1

A lustrous, rainbow-like optical phenomenon in which a surface appears to gradually change color as the angle of view or the angle of illumination changes.

Example

"The delicate soap bubble floated through the garden, displaying a brilliant iridescence in the afternoon sunlight."

Synonyms
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Antonyms
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• Rhymes for iridescence

• Nearby Words

irbid
ire
ireland
iridescence
iridescent
iris
irish moss

Word Origin & Etymology

Derived in the late 18th century from Latin iris (stem irid-), meaning 'rainbow' (from Ancient Greek Iris, the personification of the rainbow and messenger of the gods), combined with the noun suffix -escence.

Cite this Entry

Wordmom. (2026). Definition of Iridescence. In Wordmom Dictionary. Retrieved Nov 5, 2026, from https://wordmom.com/dictionary/iridescence
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