Definition of opalescentnext
as in iridescent
having a rainbowlike play of colors once given away as a cheap prize at carnivals, this opalescent glass is now highly prized by collectors

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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 opalescent Tyla’s glam followed suit, with an opalescent smoky eye that complemented the shells and a burst of pink blush by Ngozi Edeme (A.K.A. @paintedbyesther). Anna Cafolla, Vogue, 31 Oct. 2025 Each charm is made-to-order and features Prescription Kiss’ signature, glowing opalescent eyes. Noor Lobad, Footwear News, 11 Oct. 2025 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 In the crowd, Taraji P. Henson and her hairstylist Tym Wallace showed up in matching opalescent grills with the former in a dirty blonde pompadour pixie. India Espy-Jones, Essence, 12 May 2025 See All Example Sentences for opalescent
Recent Examples of Synonyms for opalescent
Adjective
  • In a selfie video, Klum styled her signature long blonde hair in an effortless blowout with face-framing curtain bangs, showing off an iridescent high-octane blue and purple eyeshadow look.
    Lara Walsh, InStyle, 17 Feb. 2026
  • Its iridescent emerald feathers sparkle against its dazzling pink throat.
    Kier Holmes, Martha Stewart, 18 Jan. 2026
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
  • Food is colorful, local, and seasonal, using Hokkaido ingredients with a French edge, helmed by chef Tatsuya Ozeki.
    Condé Nast, Condé Nast Traveler, 26 Feb. 2026
  • Try these colorful, mini versions for a fun appetizer.
    Jenna Sims, Southern Living, 25 Feb. 2026
Adjective
  • The Montreal producer’s pearlescent new album renders heartbreak and obsession in patient waves of ambient, dub techno, and progressive house.
    Kiana Mickles, Pitchfork, 17 Feb. 2026
  • Hasbro is offering the magical weapons that HUNTR/X carry, including Rumi’s Four Tiger blade (a pearlescent foam blade), Mira’s Curved Moon Sword, and Zoey’s Spirit Blades.
    Laura Sirikul, Forbes.com, 28 Jan. 2026

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Cite this Entry

“Opalescent.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/opalescent. Accessed 27 Feb. 2026.

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