What does luminous mean?
Luminous is an adjective that describes something that gives off light, is radiant, or shines brightly. It can be used to describe physical objects, such as stars or fireflies, or to describe people or situations that are inspiring or enlightening. The word has a long history, dating back to the Latin word 'lumen,' which means light. In English, luminous has been used since the 15th century to describe things that shine or glow. Today, it is a common word in both British and American English, and is often used in poetry, literature, and everyday conversation. Despite its widespread use, luminous can be a challenging word to use correctly, as it requires a sense of nuance and subtlety. However, with practice and attention to context, anyone can master the use of this beautiful and evocative word.
adjectiveGiving off light, radiant; glowing with an inner light; shining brightly.
- Giving off light, radiant; glowing with an inner light; shining brightly.
"The luminous stars in the night sky were a breathtaking sight."
"The luminous stars in the night sky were a breathtaking sight."
"The firefly's luminous abdomen glowed in the dark."
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Etymology of luminous
The word 'luminous' comes from the Latin 'lumen,' which means light. This Latin word is also the source of the English word 'luminous,' which has been used since the 15th century to describe things that shine or glow. In addition to its use in English, 'luminous' has cognates in many other languages, including French ('lumineux'), Spanish ('lumino'), and Italian ('luminoso').
Usage notes
Luminous can be used to describe objects, people, or situations that emit or reflect light. It can also be used figuratively to describe something that is inspiring or enlightening.