luminescence

noun

ˌlü-mə-ˈne-sᵊn(t)s How to pronounce luminescence (audio)
Definition of luminescencenext
as in glow
the steady giving off of the form of radiation that makes vision possible we could see inside the cave even without a flashlight because of the luminescence coming from some of the fungus on the walls

Synonyms & Similar Words

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Antonyms & Near Antonyms

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of luminescence Regardless, string lights like these instantly create warmth, ambiance, and luminescence. — Rebecca Jones, Southern Living, 8 Apr. 2026 Clients will book anytime during Oscars week, with some coming to see her the day before or even day of without risk of redness or downtime due to specific techniques that maximize luminescence without any downtime. — Margaux Lushing, Forbes.com, 15 Mar. 2026 Fire Horse flavors are amped up with a double blessing and an extra oomph of chili heat and citrusy luminescence all served family-style to emphasize togetherness. — Catharine Kaufman, San Diego Union-Tribune, 9 Feb. 2026 Auroras are light shows that happen when charged particles from the sun interact with Earth's atmosphere and magnetic field, while airglow is luminescence caused by chemical reactions high in the atmosphere. — Elizabeth Howell, Space.com, 21 Nov. 2025 See All Example Sentences for luminescence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for luminescence
  1. glow
  2. glare
  3. light
  4. gleam
  5. illumination
Noun
  • Hobaiter and Dominy support this idea with half a dozen claims that could, in principle, be tested, lending some scientific credence to the idea that complex human speech was selected for in the warm glow of a crackling campfire.
    — Mike McRae September 02, New Atlas, 3 Sep. 2026
  • While not dimmable, the shade is thick enough to keep the glow from feeling too harsh or bright.
    — Yelena Moroz Alpert, Architectural Digest, 2 Sep. 2026
Definition of glow
Noun
  • In living rooms, televisions are often placed in locations where ambient light from the windows can cause visible glare.
    — New Atlas, New Atlas, 31 Aug. 2026
  • The concept is basically like a solar eclipse; a coronagraph blocks out the glare of a star such that anything around that star can come into focus.
    — Monisha Ravisetti, Space.com, 30 Aug. 2026
Definition of glare
Noun
  • In a corner of the park designed for 2 to 5-year-olds, colorful faux-houses named after units of electricity (volts, ohms, watts and amps) feature fake solar panels and buttons which activate sound effects and control small lights.
    — Sacbee.com, Sacbee.com, 4 Sep. 2026
  • The scientists gave participants blind taste tests, then scanned their brains during tastings that involved cues such as flashes of light or pictures of a Coke or Pepsi can.
    — Teresa Mull, FOXNews.com, 4 Sep. 2026
Definition of light
Noun
  • The main camera is positioned so that Big Bear Lake gleams in the background, changing hue throughout the day.
    — Alex Ross, New Yorker, 24 Aug. 2026
  • Meanwhile, Tucuma-seed and buriti oils soften the skin and boost its radiance for a subtle, youthful gleam.
    — Jenny Berg, Vogue, 17 July 2026
Definition of gleam
Noun
  • Neighborhood Roppongi has long been a haven for expats, and the creation of Roppongi Hills two decades ago has further enlivened the area with luxury boutiques, apartments, restaurants and a compelling holiday illumination.
    — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 25 Aug. 2026
  • Artificial nighttime illumination can alter the behavior of migratory birds, insects and other nocturnal species that rely on moonlight and starlight to navigate, feed and reproduce, the coalition says.
    — Jean Lee, NBC news, 6 Aug. 2026
Definition of illumination

Browse Nearby Words

luminesced
luminescence
luminescences
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Luminescence.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/luminescence. Accessed 6 Sep. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on luminescence

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about luminescence

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