radiance

noun

ra·​di·​ance ˈrā-dē-ən(t)s 

1

: the quality or state of being radiant

2

: a deep pink

3

: the flux density of radiant energy per unit solid angle and per unit projected area of radiating surface

Synonyms of radiance

• brightness
• brilliancy
• brilliance
• lightness

Examples of radiance in a Sentence

She had a youthful radiance about her.

Her face glowed with radiance.

the radiance of the rising sun

Recent Examples on the Web

The former is caused by manganese garnet sediment and quartz that wash down from nearby cliffs, giving the sand an amethyst-like radiance. —Alanna Bennett, Condé Nast Traveler, 26 Jan. 2026

The pink formula contains niacinamide that always leaves me with a post-facial radiance. —Kaitlin Clapinski, InStyle, 26 Jan. 2026

And if your mature complexion has lost some of its luster, the radiance boost comes from a lineup of botanicals (saffron, manjishta, turmeric, licorice, and Indian barberry) that are traditionally used in Ayurvedic medicine to help even tone, brighten dullness, and calm visible inflammation. —Christa Joanna Lee, Allure, 23 Jan. 2026

The foundation, per Pyrpylis, should act as an invisible base for the face—simultaneously allowing skin’s natural radiance to show through while diffusing imperfections. —Kiana Murden, Vogue, 23 Jan. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

1593, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for radiance

• irradiance

Kids Definition

radiance

noun

ra·​di·​ance ˈrād-ē-ən(t)s 

: the quality or state of being radiant