Word of the Day
: September 2, 2024

\in-kun-DESS-unt\ adjective

What It Means

Incandescent has literal and figurative meanings. Its literal meanings relate to heat and light; it describes something that is white or glowing because of great heat, and also something (like a light bulb) that produces bright light when heated. In figurative use, incandescent relates to several kinds of brilliance. Something or someone described as incandescent can be very impressive, successful, or intelligent, or simply happy and lively. In British English, incandescent can also describe someone or something feeling or showing great anger.

// The invention of the incandescent bulb in the 19th century ushered in the age of electric lighting.

// However much we were inclined to dislike her, it was hard not to be charmed by her incandescent smile and wit.

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incandescent in Context

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