translucent

adjective

trans·lu·cent | \ tran(t)s-ˈlü-sᵊnt

, tranz-\

Definition of translucent

1 : permitting the passage of light:

a : transmitting and diffusing light so that objects beyond cannot be seen clearly

b : clear, transparent translucent water

2 : free from disguise or falseness his translucent patriotism — Newsweek

Other Words from translucent Choose the Right Synonym Did You Know? More Example Sentences Learn More about translucent

Keep scrolling for more

Choose the Right Synonym for translucent

clear, transparent, translucent, limpid mean capable of being seen through. clear implies absence of cloudiness, haziness, or muddiness. clear water transparent implies being so clear that objects can be seen distinctly. a transparent sheet of film translucent implies the passage of light but not a clear view of what lies beyond. translucent frosted glass limpid suggests the soft clearness of pure water. her eyes were limpid pools of blue

Did You Know?

Look closely and you will see the same three letters in "translucent" and "elucidate," letting the family relationship between the two words shine through. Both terms descend from the Latin word lucēre, meaning "to shine." ("Translucent" is from "lucēre" plus "trans-," which means "through.") When you "elucidate" something, you make it clear by explaining it in a way that can be easily understood - you "shed light on" it. "Lucēre" is also the root of another bright and shining English word, "lucid," which can mean either "bright with light" or "clear and easy to understand."

Examples of translucent in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

Full Transparency Transparent frames and translucent lenses have been popular in the sunglasses market as of late, though this selection doesn’t focus on one or the other, combining the two styles to create the ultimate monochrome look. — Madeline Swanson, Vogue, "Throw Some Shade With Summer’s Best Sunglasses Trends," 21 May 2019 This collection is a squad of 58 stunning lipsticks available in three dreamy formulas: 36 satin, 18 sheer, and four balms for a translucent finish. — Maya Allen, Marie Claire, "Gucci Beauty Returns With 58 New Lipsticks You'll be Obsessed With," 10 May 2019 Add 2 onions, diced, and 2 stalks celery, diced, and cook until onion is translucent and celery has softened, about 10 minutes. — Aleksandra Crapanzano, WSJ, "Everyone’s Secret-Favorite Thanksgiving Dish," 8 Nov. 2018 Then, there's the glossy, translucent fabric, which almost acts as a tromp d'oeil on the red carpet. — Glamour, "Nina Dobrev's Met Gala 2019 Look Was 3D-Printed to Her Exact Measurements," 7 May 2019 Add the grapes when the shallots are translucent but not yet brown. — Alex Hitz, House Beautiful, "The Dish for Every Occasion: Champagne Chicken "Véronique"," 7 Aug. 2014 Currently, Kylie Cosmetics is also selling a loose setting powder for $24, available in six shades: deep dark, dark, translucent, soft pink, yellow, and beige. — De Elizabeth, Teen Vogue, "Kylie Cosmetics Announces New Setting Spray," 6 Apr. 2019 Start with a few of our faves: Give yourself a quite literal natural glow with this translucent mineral powder formulated with jojoba, titanium dioxide, and witch hazel extract. — Leah Prinzivalli, Allure, "Whole Foods' Annual Beauty Week Event Has Arrived and Every Product Is on Sale," 12 Mar. 2019 Case in point: Islandiana lewisi, a translucent sheet-weaving spider recently discovered in a single cave in Indiana. — Jason Daley, Smithsonian, "New Spider Species Discovered In Indiana Cave," 3 July 2018

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'translucent.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.