fluorescence

noun

fluo·​res·​cence flu̇-ˈre-sᵊn(t)s 

flȯ-

: luminescence that is caused by the absorption of radiation at one wavelength followed by nearly immediate reradiation usually at a different wavelength and that ceases almost at once when the incident radiation stops

also : the radiation emitted compare phosphorescence

Synonyms

• blaze
• flare
• glare
• gleam
• glow
• illumination
• incandescence
• light
• luminescence
• radiance
• shine

Examples of fluorescence in a Sentence

studied the fluorescence of certain elements

Recent Examples on the Web

Using portable X-ray fluorescence, a nondestructive way to identify geochemical fingerprints, the researchers confirmed that the Mexicas were partial to a particular green and golden obsidian to produce items for rituals. —Ashley Strickland, CNN Money, 16 May 2025

Showoff How the birds move can also affect the way their fluorescence shows up. —Elizabeth Rayne, Ars Technica, 23 Feb. 2025

At 4-0 down, the PSG ultras, bathed in the pink fluorescence of their flares, serenaded every touch of their team with an ‘Ole’. —James Horncastle, New York Times, 2 June 2025

The show features vibrant paintings created with unusual color combinations in fluorescence and neon not typically found in nature. —Julie Gallant, San Diego Union-Tribune, 6 May 2025

Word History

Etymology

fluorspar + opalescence

First Known Use

1852, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for fluorescence

• excrescence
• quiescence
• quintessence
• senescence
• acquiescence
• adolescence
• coalescence
• convalescence
• effervescence
• efflorescence
• evanescence
• incandescence

Kids Definition

fluorescence

noun

flu·​o·​res·​cence

ˌflu̇(-ə)r-ˈes-ᵊn(t)s

: the giving off of radiation usually as visible light when exposed to radiation from another source (as ultraviolet light)

also : the radiation given off

Medical Definition

fluorescence

noun

flu·​o·​res·​cence -ˈes-ᵊn(t)s 

: luminescence that is caused by the absorption of radiation at one wavelength followed by nearly immediate reradiation usually at a different wavelength and that ceases almost immediately when the incident radiation stops

also : the radiation emitted

fluorescent

-ˈes-ᵊnt 

adjective

fluorescently adverb