Definition

The process of producing light without heat, often caused by chemical reactions or other changes in matter.

Example

The glow of the fireflies is a beautiful example of luminescence in nature.

Conversation

Have you ever seen that plant that glows at night?

Yeah, it's amazing how it uses luminescence to light up the dark.

I wonder how it produces that beautiful glow without any heat.

It's fascinating! Nature has so many cool tricks up its sleeve.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Luminescence → It is formed from "lumen" (from Latin, meaning light) and "-escence" (from Latin "-escentem", meaning becoming or the process of). The word "luminescence" refers to the process of becoming light or the emission of light by a substance that has not been heated.

Memory Tip

Think of 'lumen' meaning light and '-escence' indicating a process of becoming. This helps you remember that luminescence is about the process of producing light.

Visually Confused Words