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Synonym Chooser

How does the adjective luminous differ from other similar words?

Some common synonyms of luminous are bright, brilliant, lustrous, and radiant. While all these words mean "shining or glowing with light," luminous implies emission of steady, suffused, glowing light by reflection or in surrounding darkness.

When is it sensible to use bright instead of luminous?

In some situations, the words bright and luminous are roughly equivalent. However, bright implies emitting or reflecting a high degree of light.

When is brilliant a more appropriate choice than luminous?

Although the words brilliant and luminous have much in common, brilliant implies intense often sparkling brightness.

When can lustrous be used instead of luminous?

While the synonyms lustrous and luminous are close in meaning, lustrous stresses an even, rich light from a surface that reflects brightly without glittering.

In what contexts can radiant take the place of luminous?

The words radiant and luminous are synonyms, but do differ in nuance. Specifically, radiant stresses the emission or seeming emission of rays of light.

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 luminous Scientists observed an icy core enveloped by a coma, the luminous halo of gas and dust that forms when solar heat vaporizes volatile materials. Hannah Parry, MSNBC Newsweek, 29 Oct. 2025 In that luminous classic, a six-year-old girl, after watching the 1931 film, believes the monster to be utterly, terrifyingly real. Justin Chang, New Yorker, 28 Oct. 2025 Post application, my complexion is luminous, plumped and hydrated. Ellie Davis, Vogue, 28 Oct. 2025 The resulting velvet nails will be a luminous and elegant manicure, capable of elevating any look without requiring extra length. Laura Solla, Glamour, 25 Oct. 2025 See All Example Sentences for luminous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for luminous
Adjective
  • According to Moore, stainless steel requires regular cleaning to keep a glowing appearance.
    Hallie Milstein, Southern Living, 9 Nov. 2025
  • Tours usually stop at Ilha do Farol, Prainhas do Pontal, Fenda de Nossa Senhora, and the Gruta Azul, a glowing sea cave reachable only by boat.
    Aaron Randolph, Travel + Leisure, 5 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Before his arrival at the jail, MacDonald was stopped in connection with a criminal mischief investigation and arrested on an outstanding warrant, according to River Oaks police Deputy Chief Eric Perkins.
    Emerson Clarridge Updated November 11, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 11 Nov. 2025
  • While their records are not outstanding at the halfway point of the season, both are solid favorites to reach the playoffs.
    Hannah Vanbiber, New York Times, 11 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Over time, the bird became woven into Thanksgiving tradition and ultimately became the unmistakable symbol of the holiday.
    Daryl Austin, USA Today, 10 Nov. 2025
  • The song became a global feminist anthem, and the video a touchstone for her unmistakable style.
    Chris Willman, Variety, 9 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • The best shining example of something that was influenced by us is the British version of The Office.
    Brian Hiatt, Rolling Stone, 12 Sep. 2025
  • Attendees rode in support of and alongside community member Eva Zamora, who is a shining example of how to live your best life with Parkinson’s disease and takes cycle classes at EōS regularly, a news release stated.
    News Release, San Diego Union-Tribune, 27 Apr. 2025
Adjective
  • The evening convenes business and government leaders, distinguished military representatives and dignitaries to honor the military and veteran community, which is one of Harry's close causes.
    Becca Longmire, PEOPLE, 7 Nov. 2025
  • The two-time Ivy League graduate and distinguished attorney has already penned multiple books that topped The New York Times bestsellers list.
    Essence, Essence, 7 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • The single-minded obsession with Mamdani’s talk of affordability, while convenient for the mayor-elect and a vital part of his appeal, also misses an obvious point.
    Ben Smith, semafor.com, 10 Nov. 2025
  • Could the Cavs tinker just a little more to take advantage of his efficiency and obvious talent, even when everyone else is healthy?
    Joe Vardon, New York Times, 10 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • Just as Victor appeared to break open, Jackson leaped into the air, stretched his right arm skyward and pulled down a dazzling one-handed catch at the 3-yard line.
    The Athletic College Football Staff, New York Times, 9 Nov. 2025
  • No longer limited to skulking around on a bar cart, metallic finishes like aluminum and brass are in the midst of a dazzling comeback.
    Kathryn O’Shea-Evans, Robb Report, 9 Nov. 2025
Adjective
  • One of the world’s most prestigious art events, Miami Art Week began with Art Basel Miami Beach in 2002 and has since grown into a citywide celebration that draws nearly 80,000 art lovers and tastemakers.
    Staff Author, Southern Living, 9 Nov. 2025
  • As a result, the job of BBC director general — though certainly prestigious —is also relentless and thankless.
    Brian Stelter, CNN Money, 9 Nov. 2025

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Cite this Entry

“Luminous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/luminous. Accessed 17 Nov. 2025.

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