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

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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 The other triggers luminescence, causing materials to emit light in ultraviolet, visible or infrared wavelengths. — Ryan Brennan, Kansas City Star, 27 Apr. 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 In a new study published in PLOS, researchers analyzed 161 fossils with a new rapid and non-destructive protocol, based on stimulating the bone remains with an external energy source, called luminescence. — Maria Mocerino, Interesting Engineering, 6 June 2026 Her exhibit design vision, envisaged in partnership with partner Paul Cournet and his studio Cloud, incorporated luminescence and hues that radiated from the gems, dictating the color palette of purple, green, yellow and pink. — Sofia Celeste, Footwear News, 25 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for luminescence
Recent Examples of Synonyms for luminescence
  1. glow
  2. glare
  3. light
  4. gleam
  5. illumination
Noun
  • From date night sightings and courtside appearances to red carpets, this era has brought a noticeable glow to her style.
    — Amanda Le, InStyle, 3 July 2026
  • There are books and wine bottles as decor on the ledges, and a glow of warm lighting.
    — Anna Grace Lee, Vogue, 2 July 2026
Definition of glow
Noun
  • Harry and Meghan attended the queen's funeral, under the glare of the ever watchful British tabloids.
    — Jennifer Hassan, USA Today, 6 July 2026
  • Mercury and Jupiter are now swinging behind the sun and are lost in the bright solar glare.
    — Joe Rao, Space.com, 1 July 2026
Definition of glare
Noun
  • Videos from these gatherings showing chanting crowds beneath concert lights, audience members crying, hugging strangers and dancing barefoot have racked up millions of views online.
    — Ayushi Shah, CNN Money, 4 July 2026
  • Details about the couple's big day, continue to come to light – from Swift's wedding dress to possible performances at the celebration.
    — Bryan West, USA Today, 4 July 2026
Definition of light
Noun
  • Then buff the steel with a dry cloth, wiping in the same direction as the metal's grain to bring back that gleam.
    — Brandee Gruener, Southern Living, 1 July 2026
  • There’s a hyperreal gleam to Clerkin’s guitar—acoustic but with none of the grain, a coffee-shop Henry Kaiser—and her guitar parts appear and vanish at will, like errant loops scattered on a digital audio workstation.
    — Daniel Bromfield, Pitchfork, 5 June 2026
Definition of gleam
Noun
  • The citywide experience will consist of landmark illuminations, exhibitions, immersive fan activations, and collaborations with local communities and businesses.
    — Laura Sirikul, Forbes.com, 29 June 2026
  • Inside, a string of skylights will provide almost all the natural illumination the library would ever need, held up by walls made solely of compressed earth.
    — Lee Cowan, CBS News, 21 June 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 8 Jul. 2026.

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More from Merriam-Webster on luminescence

Nglish: Translation of luminescence for Spanish Speakers

Britannica.com: Encyclopedia article about luminescence

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