Definition

Describing something that is very thin and light, allowing light to pass through it, often making it somewhat see-through.

Example

She wore a diaphanous dress that fluttered in the breeze.

Conversation

I saw a dress that was so beautiful and diaphanous yesterday.

That sounds lovely! Was it for a special occasion?

Yeah, it would be perfect for a summer party.

Definitely! Those kinds of fabrics are always so elegant.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Diaphanous → It is formed from "dia-" (meaning through) and "phanus" (from Greek "phanai", meaning to show or appear). The word describes a material that allows light to pass through, making it translucent or sheer, as if showing through.

Memory Tip

Think of something that lets light pass 'through' ('dia-') and 'shows' ('phanus') what is behind it — that's why diaphanous means something that is sheer or translucent.

Visually Confused Words