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
Examples of bioluminescence in a Sentence
Recent Examples on the Web
Join Explore Volusia for a night-time paddle through Mosquito Lagoon and explore the beauty of bioluminescence.
—
Joe Rassel, Orlando Sentinel, 19 June 2024
This exhibit is filled with hands-on activities for young children that will teach them about things like bioluminescence, camouflage and the effect of underwater pressure on the human body.
—Amy Schwabe, Journal Sentinel, 17 June 2024
Not to be confused with bioluminescence, where the animal glows on its own, fluorescence occurs when a molecule absorbs a certain wavelength of light being projected on it and then re-emits the light at a slightly longer wavelength, according to a study published June 12 in the journal PLOS One.
—Irene Wright, Miami Herald, 13 June 2024
By using genes from a naturally bioluminescent mushroom, scientists have created a self-sustaining bioluminescence in the flowers.
—Kara Peeler, Sunset Magazine, 7 June 2024
See all Example Sentences for bioluminescence 
Joe Rassel, Orlando Sentinel, 19 June 2024
This exhibit is filled with hands-on activities for young children that will teach them about things like bioluminescence, camouflage and the effect of underwater pressure on the human body.
—Amy Schwabe, Journal Sentinel, 17 June 2024
Not to be confused with bioluminescence, where the animal glows on its own, fluorescence occurs when a molecule absorbs a certain wavelength of light being projected on it and then re-emits the light at a slightly longer wavelength, according to a study published June 12 in the journal PLOS One.
—Irene Wright, Miami Herald, 13 June 2024
By using genes from a naturally bioluminescent mushroom, scientists have created a self-sustaining bioluminescence in the flowers.
—Kara Peeler, Sunset Magazine, 7 June 2024
See all Example Sentences for bioluminescence
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Dictionary Entries Near bioluminescence
Cite this Entry
“Bioluminescence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bioluminescence. Accessed 2 Jul. 2024.
Copy CitationMedical 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
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