bioluminescence

noun

bio·​lu·​mi·​nes·​cence ˌbī-ō-ˌlü-mə-ˈne-sᵊn(t)s 

: the emission of light from living organisms (such as fireflies, dinoflagellates, and bacteria) as the result of internal, typically oxidative chemical reactions

also : the light so produced

bioluminescent

ˌbī-ō-ˌlü-mə-ˈne-sᵊnt 

adjective

Examples of bioluminescence in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

For decades now, Widder has been documenting the light show created by marine animals that mix chemicals in their bodies to generate bioluminescence. — Matthew Carey, Deadline, 1 Aug. 2026

The bluish-silver reflects in cat-eye glitter like bioluminescence. — Ariel Wodarcyk, InStyle, 22 July 2026

But this place is all about fun on the water, and the Taj can arrange kayaking through the mangroves at night to see the bioluminescence, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, and forays to see turtles nesting. — Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 15 July 2026

Wisden said his business is the only one that consistently runs kayak tours to see the bioluminescence just inside the Cape Hatteras National Seashore. — Eva Flowe july 8, Charlotte Observer, 8 July 2026

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

1916, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for bioluminescence

• acquiescence
• adolescence
• coalescence
• convalescence
• effervescence
• efflorescence
• evanescence
• incandescence
• inflorescence
• iridescence
• luminescence
• obsolescence

Medical Definition

bioluminescence

noun

bio·​lu·​mi·​nes·​cence ˌbī-ō-ˌlü-mə-ˈnes-ᵊn(t)s 

: the emission of light from living organisms

also : the light so produced

bioluminescent

-ᵊnt 

adjective