as in opalescent
having a rainbowlike play of colors an iridescent soap bubble

Synonyms & Similar Words

Relevance

Example Sentences

Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Recent Examples of iridescent But this being a Phantom, no ordinary paint was used; the clear coat was infused with iridescent particles of crushed glass to give a shimmering finish called Super Champagne Crystal. Howard Walker, Robb Report, 22 Oct. 2025 The color is a quintessential bridal look, but the seemingly iridescent touch gives it just the right amount of modernity and whimsy. Marci Robin, Allure, 27 Sep. 2025 As the show concluded (after a few changes in between), the star wore this structural, iridescent latex bodysuit and winged jacket by Vex, getting closer to the nakedness of her true self. EW.com, 31 Aug. 2025 Adding a hint of shimmer and shine to a classic look, this style has a familiarly neutral base, but replaces that solid white tip with an iridescent cat-eye effect that catches the light like glass. Mica Ricketts, Refinery29, 10 Aug. 2025 See All Example Sentences for iridescent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for iridescent
Adjective
  • But sometimes the criteria for inclusion are murkier, as in Catherine Opie’s opalescent views of Lake Michigan, one for each season, hung with their horizons in line.
    Lori Waxman, Chicago Tribune, 21 July 2025
  • The formal coupes are polished using specialty techniques to reveal a reflective, opalescent finish.
    Maria Conti, Better Homes & Gardens, 3 June 2025
Adjective
  • Duran opened a colorful and fun new space in Elizabeth, accented with custom art.
    Heidi Finley, Charlotte Observer, 11 Nov. 2025
  • There are ski helmets and Stetsons, colorful Gortex bibs and brown cowhide chaps, floor-length fur coats and hip-length puffer jackets — and of course, ski boots and cowboy boots.
    Cari Shane, USA Today, 11 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Quahogs produce non-nacreous, porcelainlike pearls, according to the Gemological Institute of America.
    Shannon Marvel McNaught, USA TODAY, 16 Aug. 2022
  • Markov processes include an element of randomness—in this case, the thickness of the outermost nacreous layer—but one that can be influenced by the system’s history.
    Leila Sloman, Popular Mechanics, 28 Feb. 2022
Adjective
  • Earlier this month, a traffic stop led Florida police to discover brightly colored candy reminiscent of pearlescent gumballs that field tested for fentanyl, according to the West Palm Beach Police Department.
    Julia Bonavita, FOXNews.com, 31 Oct. 2025
  • It can even be combined with matte or pearlescent polishes to achieve dimensional contrasts.
    Laura Solla, Glamour, 25 Oct. 2025

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Iridescent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/iridescent. Accessed 12 Nov. 2025.

More from Merriam-Webster on iridescent

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!