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luminous

adjective

/ˈluːmɪnəs/

IPA:

Dictionary definition of luminous

Emitting or reflecting light, often without producing heat, as a result of various chemical, electrical, or physical processes.
"The luminous moon shone brightly in the night sky."

Detailed meaning of luminous

Luminescent objects or substances have the unique ability to glow or shine in the dark or low-light conditions. Unlike incandescent sources of light, which generate illumination through the release of heat, luminescence occurs when energy is absorbed and then re-emitted as visible light. This term is commonly associated with phenomena such as the gentle glow of phosphorescent paint in the dark or the fluorescence of certain minerals when exposed to ultraviolet light. "Luminescent" conveys a sense of ethereal and otherworldly beauty, often capturing our fascination and wonder with its ability to produce radiant light without the usual heat associated with traditional sources of illumination.

Example sentences containing luminous

1. The full moon cast a luminous glow over the landscape.
2. She had a luminous smile that lit up the room.
3. The stars sparkled with a luminous brilliance in the clear night sky.
4. They followed the luminous trail, guiding them through the dark forest.
5. The neon sign emitted a bright and luminous light.
6. Her eyes were luminous, shining with excitement and joy.

History and etymology of luminous

The adjective 'luminous' derives its etymological roots from the Latin word 'luminosus,' which is a derivative of 'lumen,' meaning 'light.' This Latin term encompasses the idea of emitting or reflecting light, often without generating heat, as a result of various chemical, electrical, or physical processes. 'Luminous' aptly captures the essence of radiant and glowing light, emphasizing the quality of brilliance and the capacity to emit illumination without the associated production of heat. This etymology underlines the connection between the word and the phenomenon of light itself, making it a fitting term to describe objects, substances, or phenomena that emit or reflect light in a way that is visually striking and radiant.

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Further usage examples of luminous

1. The sunset painted the sky with luminous hues of orange and pink.
2. The diamond on her finger was luminous, reflecting light from every angle.
3. They admired the luminous paintings that adorned the gallery walls.
4. The fireflies created a luminous spectacle as they danced in the summer night.
5. The room was bathed in a soft, luminous glow from the candlelight.
6. She wore a luminous dress that shimmered under the disco ball.
7. The luminous clock on the wall helped them keep track of time.
8. They gazed at the luminous city skyline, captivated by its beauty.
9. The lighthouse sent out a luminous beam, guiding ships safely to the harbor.
10. The luminous jellyfish floated gracefully in the aquarium, captivating onlookers.
11. His paintings captured the luminous beauty of nature, filling the viewer with awe.
12. They were mesmerized by the luminous performance on stage, transfixed by the talent.
13. The luminous snowflakes glistened as they fell from the sky.
14. The luminous moonlit path led them through the enchanted forest.