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phosphor

Intermediate (B1)

IPA: /ˈfɒsfər/

KK: /ˈfɑsfər/

noun
Definition

A material that can store energy and emit light when it is exposed to radiation, commonly used in lighting and display technologies.


Example

The screen of the television uses a phosphor to create bright colors.


Conversation
Sloth A
Have you ever heard of phosphor before?
Sloth B
Yeah, it's that cool stuff that makes screens glow, right?
Sloth A
Exactly! I read that it's used in fluorescent lamps too.
Sloth B
That's fascinating! I never knew it had so many applications.

Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
luminescent
glow
radiant
Antonyms
opaque
dull
nonluminous
Root Explanation

Phosphor → It is derived from the Greek "phōs" (meaning light) and "phoros" (meaning bearer). The word "phosphor" refers to a substance that bears or emits light.

Memory Tip

Think of a 'light bearer' — 'phōs' means light and 'phoros' means to bear. This helps you remember that phosphor is something that emits light.

Visually Confused Words
diphosphoric
azophosphore
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