scintillating
Upper-Intermediate (B2)
IPA: /ˈsɪn.tɪ.leɪ.tɪŋ/
KK: /ˈsɪn.tɪ.leɪ.tɪŋ/
adjective
Definition
Something that is very clever, entertaining, or full of energy and brightness.
Example
The speaker gave a scintillating presentation that kept everyone engaged.
Conversation
Did you catch that talk by the new author last night?
Yeah, it was scintillating! I couldn't believe how engaging he was.
I know, right? His ideas were so fresh and lively.
Absolutely! I left feeling inspired to read more of his work.
Synonyms & Antonyms
Synonyms
brilliant
sparkling
lively
Antonyms
dull
boring
uninspired
verb
Definition
To emit or reflect light in a flickering or sparkling manner.
Example
The stars were scintillating in the clear night sky.
Tense Forms
Past: scintillated
Past Participle: scintillated
Conversation
Did you see that star scintillating in the sky last night?
Yeah, it was beautiful!
I love when they scintillate like that.
Root Explanation
Scintillating → It is formed from "scintilla" (from Latin, meaning a spark or a small particle) and the suffix "-ating" (indicating a process or action). The word "scintillating" means sparkling or shining brightly, often used metaphorically to describe something that is brilliantly clever or exciting.
Memory Tip
Imagine a tiny spark ('scintilla') that shines brightly and brings excitement — that's what scintillating means.
Visually Confused Words
unscintillating
titillating
oscillating
instillation
cantillation