Definition

The quality of allowing radiation, such as X-rays, to pass through an object, making it appear dark on an X-ray image.

Example

The dentist noted the radiolucency in the X-ray, indicating a possible cavity.

Conversation

I was reading about dental X-rays and came across the term radiolucency.

Oh really? What does that mean?

It refers to the quality of being able to let X-rays pass through, making certain areas appear darker.

That makes sense! It's fascinating how they can see so much just through radiolucency.

Synonyms & Antonyms

Root Explanation

Radiolucency → It is formed from "radio-" (from Latin "radius", meaning ray) and "lucency" (from Latin "lucere", meaning to shine or be light). The term describes the quality of allowing rays, particularly X-rays, to pass through an object, indicating transparency to radiation.

Memory Tip

Think of 'rays' ('radio-') passing through something that 'shines' or is 'light' ('lucency') — that's why radiolucency refers to the ability to allow rays to pass through.

Visually Confused Words