bioluminescence

noun

bio·​lu·​mi·​nes·​cence ˌbī-ō-ˌlü-mə-ˈne-sᵊn(t)s 

: the emission of light from living organisms (such as fireflies, dinoflagellates, and bacteria) as the result of internal, typically oxidative chemical reactions

also : the light so produced

bioluminescent

ˌbī-ō-ˌlü-mə-ˈne-sᵊnt 

adjective

Examples of bioluminescence in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

One of their most distinctive traits is bioluminescence. — Samantha Agate, Miami Herald, 23 Apr. 2026

Prey tends to appear as silhouettes against that dim overhead glow, while some organisms punctuate the darkness with bioluminescence. — Scott Travers, Forbes.com, 26 Mar. 2026

The light is created by bioluminescence, a chemical reaction allowing the beetle to convert energy into light. — Mary Marlowe Leverette, Southern Living, 6 June 2026

This stunningly beautiful scientific film features footage of the elusive giant squid in its natural habitat, and the earliest images of deep-sea bioluminescence. — Matthew Carey, Deadline, 31 Mar. 2026

Word History

Etymology

International Scientific Vocabulary

First Known Use

1916, in the meaning defined above

Rhymes for bioluminescence

• acquiescence
• adolescence
• coalescence
• convalescence
• effervescence
• efflorescence
• evanescence
• incandescence
• inflorescence
• iridescence
• luminescence
• obsolescence

Medical Definition

bioluminescence

noun

bio·​lu·​mi·​nes·​cence ˌbī-ō-ˌlü-mə-ˈnes-ᵊn(t)s 

: the emission of light from living organisms

also : the light so produced

bioluminescent

-ᵊnt 

adjective