scintillate
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈsɪn.tɪ.leɪt/
KK: /ˈsɪn.tɪ.leɪt/
intransitive verb
Definition
To sparkle or shine brightly, often in a lively or animated way.
Example
The stars scintillate in the night sky, creating a beautiful display.
Tense Forms
Past: scintillated
Past Participle: scintillated
Conversation
Did you notice how the stars seem to scintillate tonight?
Yeah, it's beautiful! They really stand out against the dark sky.
I love evenings like this; everything just feels more magical when they scintillate.
Absolutely! It makes me want to stay outside and enjoy the view.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
sparkle
shine
glimmer
Antonyms
dull
fade
dim
transitive verb
Definition
To emit or produce small flashes of light or sparks.
Example
The stars scintillate in the night sky, creating a beautiful display.
Tense Forms
Past: scintillated
Past Participle: scintillated
Conversation
Did you see the fireworks last night?
Yeah, they really scintillate against the dark sky!
I love how they light up everything around them.
Root Explanation
Scintillate → It is formed from "scintilla" (from Latin, meaning a spark or a small particle) and the suffix "-ate" (indicating to make or to cause). The word "scintillate" means to emit sparks or to sparkle, as if causing small sparks of light.
Memory Tip
Think of a 'spark' ('scintilla') that 'makes' ('-ate') something shine or twinkle — that's why scintillate means to sparkle.
Visually Confused Words
cantillate
sigillate
oscillate