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incandesce

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ɪnˈkændɛs/

KK: /ɪnˈkændɛs/

transitive verb
Definition

To make something glow with heat or light, often by heating it until it becomes bright and emits light.


Example

The artist decided to incandesce the glass to create a stunning effect in her sculpture.


Tense Forms

Past: incandesced

Past Participle: incandesced


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever seen a light bulb incandesce when it's turned on?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's fascinating how it glows so brightly!
Sloth A
I love how it can incandesce in different colors too.
Sloth B
Absolutely! It really adds a nice touch to the room.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
illuminate
radiate
glow
Antonyms
darken
dull
extinguish
Root Explanation

Incandesce is formed from "in-" (meaning into or upon) and "candescere" (from Latin, meaning to shine or glow). The word describes the process of becoming luminous or glowing, particularly when heated.

Memory Tip

Think of something 'shining' ('candescere') as it becomes 'more' ('in-') bright — that's why incandesce means to glow or shine.

Visually Confused Words
subincandescent
nonincandescent
candescent
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