radiant
Intermediate (B1)
IPA: //ˈreɪdiənt//
KK: /ˈreɪdiənt/
adjective
Definition
Describing something that gives off light or heat, or is very bright and shining.
Example
The sun was radiant in the clear blue sky.
Comparatives & Superlatives
Comparative: more radiant
Superlative: most radiant
Conversation
Wow, your smile is so radiant today!
Thanks! I just got back from a great vacation.
That makes sense; you look really happy and relaxed.
Yeah, the sun really helped me feel radiant!
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
luminous
brilliant
gleaming
Antonyms
dull
dim
gloomy
noun
Definition
A source or point from which light or heat is emitted, often used in astronomy to describe the origin of meteors.
Example
The radiant of the meteor shower was located in the constellation Perseus.
Conversation
Did you see the meteor shower last night?
I did! The radiant point was so mesmerizing.
Right? It felt like we were witnessing something magical.
Root Explanation
Radiant → It is formed from "radiare" (meaning to emit rays) and the suffix "-ant" (indicating an agent or something that performs an action). The word "radiant" describes something that emits rays of light or brightness.
Memory Tip
Think of something that 'emits rays' ('radiare') — that's why we say something is radiant when it shines brightly.
Visually Confused Words
irradiant
eradicant
riant
ordinant
orcadian
gradient
eradiate
cardiant