fluoresce

verb

fluo·​resce flu̇-ˈres 

flȯ-

fluoresced; fluorescing

intransitive verb

: to produce, undergo, or exhibit fluorescence

fluorescer noun

Examples of fluoresce in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Because the molecules fluoresce under specific wavelengths, researchers are currently exploring whether similar compounds could be used as biological imaging tools. —Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 13 Mar. 2026

Scientists also referenced research suggesting scorpion exoskeletons can fluoresce under ultraviolet light and may function as a light-sensing surface. —Hanna Wickes, Charlotte Observer, 10 Mar. 2026

Scientists referenced research suggesting that scorpion exoskeletons can fluoresce under ultraviolet light and may function as a light-sensing surface. —Hanna Wickes, Miami Herald, 10 Mar. 2026

The study also referenced research suggesting scorpion exoskeletons can fluoresce under ultraviolet light and may function as a light-sensing surface. —Hanna Wickes, Kansas City Star, 10 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

back-formation from fluorescence

First Known Use

1874, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for fluoresce

• abbess
• abscess
• access
• address
• assess
• caress
• confess
• depress
• digress
• distress
• egress
• excess

Kids Definition

fluoresce

verb

flu·​o·​resce

ˌflu̇(-ə)r-ˈes

fluoresced; fluorescing

: to produce, exhibit, or be exposed to fluorescence

Medical Definition

fluoresce

intransitive verb

flu·​o·​resce ˌflu̇(-ə)r-ˈes  flōr-  flȯr- 

fluoresced; fluorescing

: to produce, undergo, or exhibit fluorescence

fluorescer noun