Opalescent: meaning, definitions and examples
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opalescent
[ ˌoʊpəˈlɛsənt ]
color/appearance
Opalescent refers to a unique quality described as having a milky or translucent appearance with varying colors that resemble the effects produced by the iridescent surface of an opal. This term is often used to describe materials like glass, gemstones, or even certain types of water that reflect light in different hues, creating a shimmering effect. The term can also evoke a sense of ethereal beauty, suggesting an enchanting or otherworldly aspect to the object it describes.
Synonyms
iridescent, luminous, pearl-like.
Examples of usage
- The opalescent texture of the glass vase caught the light beautifully.
- Her opalescent skin glowed under the soft moonlight.
- He admired the opalescent sheen of the soap bubble as it floated away.
Translations
Translations of the word "opalescent" in other languages:
🇵🇹 opalescente
🇮🇳 ओपल्सेंट
🇩🇪 opaleszent
🇮🇩 opalesen
🇺🇦 опалесцентний
🇵🇱 opalizujący
🇯🇵 オパレスセント
🇫🇷 opalescent
🇪🇸 opalescente
🇹🇷 opalesan
🇰🇷 오팔레센트
🇸🇦 أوباليسنت
🇨🇿 opalescentní
🇸🇰 opalescentný
🇨🇳 蛋白石光泽的
🇸🇮 opalizirajoč
🇮🇸 opalísent
🇰🇿 опалесцентті
🇬🇪 ოპალესცენტი
🇦🇿 opalescent
🇲🇽 opalescente
Etymology
The term 'opalescent' has its roots in the word 'opal,' derived from the Latin 'opalus' and the Greek 'opalios,' both of which refer to the gemstone known for its distinct play of color. The word began to be used in English in the late 19th century, particularly in artistic and literary contexts, as people sought to describe the fascinating light phenomena associated with opals. Over time, 'opalescent' expanded beyond its initial use related to gemstones to describe a broader range of materials that exhibit similar light-reflecting properties. The usage of 'opalescent' has been particularly popular in art, poetry, and fashion, often evoking sentiments of beauty and mystique.