brilliance

noun

bril·​liance ˈbril-yən(t)s 

: the quality or state of being brilliant

Synonyms of brilliance

• brilliancy
• brightness
• lightness

Examples of brilliance in a Sentence

The professor was known for his brilliance.

the brilliance of a diamond

Recent Examples on the Web

Test your knowledge of summer splurges, basketball brilliance and more in this week's American Culture Quiz. — Staff, FOXNews.com, 21 Aug. 2026

And pure math is seen by humans as like the most exalted exhibition of intelligence and brilliance. — Quanta Magazine, 20 Aug. 2026

For instance, this option from Oak and Luna features a naturally occurring silicon carbide now grown almost entirely in labs, brings a more responsible origin story alongside genuine brilliance, ranking second only to diamond in hardness. — Pooja Mistry, Forbes.com, 19 Aug. 2026

And certainly, an homage to the importance and brilliance of sea creatures. — Antonia Blyth, Deadline, 18 Aug. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1748, in the meaning defined above

Kids Definition

brilliance

noun

bril·​liance ˈbril-yən(t)s 

: the quality or state of being brilliant