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Definition of luminescent

luminescent

/ˌluː.mɪˈnɛs.ənt/
lu · mi · nes · cent
Adverb:luminescently
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luminescent Lexical Profile

luminescent Game Scores & Validity

• adjective

1

Emitting light through a chemical, biological, or electrical process that does not generate significant heat.

Example

"The divers marveled at the luminescent jellyfish drifting silently through the dark ocean depths."

2

Shining with a soft, bright, or vivid glow.

Example

"The artist used luminescent shades of blue and green to capture the reflection of the moonlight on the water."

Synonyms
View all synonyms for luminescent
Antonyms
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Word Nuance & Usage

Unlike 'incandescent', which describes light produced by extreme heat, 'luminescent' specifically refers to cold light emitted through chemical, electrical, or biological processes.

• Rhymes for luminescent

• Nearby Words

lumen
luminary
luminescence
luminescent
luminosity
luminous
luminously

Word Origin & Etymology

Coined in the late 19th century from the Latin noun 'lumen' (meaning 'light') combined with the inchoative suffix '-escent', patterned after words like 'incandescent'.

Cite this Entry

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