Definition

A type of opal that appears cloudy or opaque when dry but becomes clear or see-through when it is wet.

Example

The hydrophane opal changed its appearance dramatically when it was submerged in water.

Conversation

I just got this beautiful hydrophane opal.

Really? I’ve heard they change color when wet.

Yeah, it’s fascinating how it goes from almost opaque to transparent.

That sounds amazing! I’d love to see it in person.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Hydrophane is formed from "hydro-" (from Greek "hydor", meaning water) and "-phane" (from Greek "phanai", meaning to show or to appear). The word describes a substance that appears or shows itself when in contact with water.

Memory Tip

Think of 'water' ('hydro-') making something 'appear' ('-phane') — that's why hydrophane refers to a material that shows its properties when wet.

Visually Confused Words