Translucence: meaning, definitions and examples

light property

Translucence refers to the quality of allowing light to pass through a material without allowing detailed shapes to be seen clearly. It is an intermediate state between transparency, where objects can be seen clearly, and opacity, where light cannot pass through at all. Materials that exhibit translucence scatter light, making them appear somewhat cloudy or semi-transparent. Common examples of translucent materials include frosted glass, certain plastics, and wax paper, which diffuse light and create a soft glow when illuminated.

cloudiness, opacity, semi-transparency

Examples of usage

• The frosted glass provided translucence while maintaining privacy.

• Artists often use materials with translucence to create ethereal effects in their paintings.

• The translucence of the curtains allowed sunlight to gently illuminate the room.