Definition

To continue to give off light after being exposed to a light source, without producing heat or fire.

Example

Some materials can phosphoresce, glowing in the dark after being charged by light.

Conversation

Did you see that glow-in-the-dark paint we used at the party last night?

Yeah, it was amazing how it could actually phosphoresce after the lights went out.

I didn't expect it to last so long, it was really cool!

Totally! I love how it just keeps glowing for a while.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Phosphoresce → It is formed from "phosphor" (from Greek "phosphoros", meaning light-bringer or bearer of light) and "-esce" (meaning to begin to). The word describes the process of beginning to emit light, particularly after being energized.

Memory Tip

Think of 'light-bringer' ('phosphor') and remember that 'phosphoresce' means to begin to emit light.

Visually Confused Words