Definition

Showing a play of colors like an opal, often with a milky or shimmering appearance.

Example

The opalescent surface of the water reflected the colors of the sunset beautifully.

Conversation

Have you seen that new lamp I got for my room?

Yeah, it looks amazing! The light is so opalescent.

I love how it changes colors when the light hits it.

It really creates a beautiful atmosphere, doesn't it?

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Opalescent → It is formed from "opal" (from Latin *opalus*, meaning a precious stone) and "-escent" (from Latin *escentem*, meaning becoming or in the process of). The word describes something that is becoming like an opal, exhibiting a play of colors.

Memory Tip

Imagine something that is 'becoming' ('-escent') like a precious stone ('opal') — that's why opalescent refers to something that shows a shimmering, colorful quality.

Visually Confused Words