Definition

The quality of being very thin and transparent, allowing light to pass through.

Example

The diaphanousness of the fabric made it perfect for a summer dress.

Conversation

Have you seen that new dress Sarah wore at the party last night?

Yeah, it was stunning with all its diaphanousness!

I know, right? It made her look so ethereal.

Definitely! The way the light caught it was just beautiful.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Diaphanousness is formed from "dia-" (meaning through) and "phanous" (from Greek "phaneros", meaning visible or clear) combined with the suffix "-ness" (meaning the state of being). The word describes the quality of being light, delicate, and transparent, allowing light to pass through.

Memory Tip

Think of something that is 'clear' or 'visible' ('phanous') and allows light to pass 'through' ('dia-') — that's what diaphanousness means.

Visually Confused Words