photosensitive

adjective

pho·​to·​sen·​si·​tive ˌfō-tō-ˈsen(t)-s(ə-)tiv 

1

: sensitive to the action of radiant energy

photosensitive paper

2

: being or caused by an abnormal reaction to sunlight

photosensitive rashes

photosensitivity

ˌfō-tō-ˌsen(t)-sə-ˈti-və-tē 

noun

Examples of photosensitive in a Sentence

paper with a photosensitive coating

Recent Examples on the Web

The technique uses liquid resins that solidify only when photosensitive molecules within the resin absorb two photons of light at the same time instead of just one. — IEEE Spectrum, 17 Dec. 2025

The video prominently features Noé’s signature strobe effects and begins with a warning for photosensitive viewers. — Jon Blistein, Rolling Stone, 10 Oct. 2025

The discovery of compound eye structures this old pushes our understanding of vision’s early evolution far earlier than simple photosensitive spots. — Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 4 Mar. 2026

Events at Miami Beach Bandshell may contain flashing lights and strobe effects which can affect photosensitive individuals. — James Varsallone, Miami Herald, 1 Dec. 2025

Word History

First Known Use

1886, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for photosensitive

• hypersensitive
• insensitive
• radiosensitive
• sensitive

Medical Definition

photosensitive

adjective

pho·​to·​sen·​si·​tive ˌfōt-ō-ˈsen(t)-sət-iv, -ˈsen(t)-stiv 

1

: sensitive or sensitized to the action of radiant energy

photosensitive paper

2

: being or caused by an abnormal reaction to sunlight

photosensitive rashes

photosensitivity

-ˌsen(t)-sə-ˈtiv-ət-ē 

noun

plural photosensitivities