Diaphanous: meaning, definitions and examples

Used in literature and poetry to describe delicate and light fabrics that are almost transparent; often to evoke a sense of ethereal beauty.

• The diaphanous curtains billowed gently in the morning breeze

Describes materials that allow light to pass through so that objects on the other side can be clearly seen. Also used metaphorically to describe something clear and easily understood.

• The transparent glass allowed a clear view of the garden
• The company's financial operations were transparent and easy to understand

Describes materials that allow light to pass through but diffuse it so that objects on the other side are not clearly visible. Often used for objects like frosted glass or certain types of plastic.

• The bathroom window was made of translucent glass to provide both light and privacy

Used to describe fabrics that are almost completely transparent. Also used to emphasize the steepness or large extent of something.

• The model wore a sheer dress that left little to the imagination
• The cliff dropped down in a sheer descent

Describes something very light, thin, and delicate, like a spider's web. Often used in a poetic or descriptive way to evoke a sense of lightness or fragility.

• She wore a gossamer gown that shimmered in the moonlight