Definition

A type of porcelain that shows images or designs when light passes through it.

Example

The artist created a beautiful lithophane that revealed a scene when illuminated from behind.

Conversation

Have you ever seen a lithophane before?

No, I haven't. What is it exactly?

It's a type of porcelain that reveals images when light shines through it.

That sounds really cool! I'd love to see one in person.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Lithophane is formed from "litho-" (from Greek "lithos", meaning stone) and "-phane" (from Greek "phanai", meaning to show or reveal). The word describes a type of translucent porcelain that reveals images when backlit, resembling stone in its appearance.

Memory Tip

Think of 'stone' ('lithos') that 'shows' images ('phanai') when light shines through it — that's what a lithophane does.

Visually Confused Words