Finesentence mobile logo
Sign in Login / Register

Coruscating Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

✨
Add to dictionary

coruscating

[kəˈrʌs.kəˌteɪ.tɪŋ ]

Definition

Context #1 | Adjective

light, shining

Coruscating describes the way something sparkles or shimmers with reflective light. This term often suggests a dazzling or bright effect, reminiscent of the twinkling of stars or the glint of sunlight on water. It can be used in both literal and figurative contexts, indicating brilliance and vibrancy. In literature, coruscating may evoke imagery of something vibrant and alive.

Synonyms

glittering, scintillating, shimmering, sparkling, twinkling.

Examples of usage

  • The coruscating stars lit up the night sky.
  • Her coruscating smile could brighten the darkest room.
  • The coruscating surface of the lake reflected the sun.
  • The gemstone was coruscating with colors under the light.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Interesting Facts

Science

  • In physics, coruscation can describe the flickering light seen in phenomena like lightning or star twinkling.
  • The phenomenon is often studied in optics, where light dispersion causes objects to appear to shine or glitter.
  • Coruscation can occur in natural settings, such as sunlight reflecting off the surface of water, creating a dazzling effect.

Literature

  • The term is frequently used in poetry to evoke imagery of light and beauty, enhancing the emotional tone of the work.
  • Notable authors, like Virginia Woolf, used coruscating imagery to describe characters or settings, illustrating their brilliance.
  • In literature, it’s often associated with themes of nature, beauty, and the ephemeral nature of life.

Art

  • Artists use coruscating effects in their work to draw the viewer's eye, using light and shadow to create depth.
  • Famous works that incorporate shimmering effects often evoke feelings of wonder, like Monet’s impressionist paintings.
  • The use of glitter and reflective materials in modern art installations creates coruscating visuals that engage viewers.

Pop Culture

  • Movies and shows often depict magical or fantastic beings with coruscating auras to signify their powers.
  • The concept is often relaunched in fashion, where designers play with materials that coruscate, captivating the audience.
  • Music videos may also use coruscation as a visual theme to emphasize rhythm and vibrancy, enhancing the overall experience.

Origin of 'coruscating'

Main points about word origin

  • The word comes from the Latin word 'coruscare', meaning 'to shimmer' or 'to glow'.
  • It first entered the English language in the early 19th century, specifically in literature and poetry.
  • Related words include 'coruscation', which describes the action of sparkling or flashing.

The word 'coruscating' is derived from the Latin 'coruscatus', the past participle of 'coruscare', which means 'to sparkle' or 'to flash'. The root 'currere' implies motion or running, reflecting the active quality of something that sparkles or shines. The term saw its first usages in the English language in the late 18th century, primarily in poetic or scientific contexts to describe light phenomena. Over time, it has been adopted into more general usage, particularly in literary descriptions, where it conveys an image of radiance and brilliance. Today, 'coruscating' is often employed to evoke a sense of dazzling beauty or lively energy, both in the realm of nature and human expression.

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #39,241, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.