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Word of the Day
luminescence
The emission of light by a substance that has not been heated; light produced by chemical, electrical, or physiological means.
Etymology
From Latin "lumen" (light) + "-escence" (beginning to be). The suffix indicates the process of becoming luminous.
Usage Examples
"Fireflies create their magical glow through bioluminescence."
"The watch dial's luminescence made it easy to read in the dark."
"The ocean sparkled with the luminescence of microscopic plankton."
Synonyms
- Glow
- Radiance (when not from heat)
- Phosphorescence
- Fluorescence
Fun Facts
- Unlike incandescence, luminescence is "cold light" - no heat required.
- Glow sticks work through chemiluminescence - light from chemical reactions.
- Many deep-sea creatures use bioluminescence to attract prey or mates.
Related Terms
- Bioluminescence: Light produced by living organisms
- Phosphorescence: Light emitted from a substance after exposure to radiation
- Fluorescence: The emission of light by a substance that has absorbed light
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