fluorescence

noun

fluo·​res·​cence flu̇-ˈre-sᵊn(t)s How to pronounce fluorescence (audio)
flȯ-
: luminescence that is caused by the absorption of radiation at one wavelength followed by nearly immediate reradiation usually at a different wavelength and that ceases almost at once when the incident radiation stops
also : the radiation emitted compare phosphorescence

Examples of fluorescence in a Sentence

studied the fluorescence of certain elements
Recent Examples on the Web
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.
Sometimes the bird can change its degree of fluorescence just by moving into areas with more or less light. Elizabeth Rayne, Ars Technica, 23 Feb. 2025 Fishy fluorescence Though birds-of-paradise are known for their dramatic colors, the biofluorescent aspect of their visual communication was previously undescribed and raises new questions about how the birds use visual cues, lead study author Dr. Rene Martin said. Mindy Weisberger, CNN, 20 Feb. 2025 The laser highlighted fluorescence naturally emitted from the skin, while the ink remained black, effectively eliminating the ink bleeding caused by aging and mummification. Byrodrigo Pérez Ortega, science.org, 13 Jan. 2025 Unlike with fluorescence, this process does not need an external source of light. Laura Baisas, Popular Science, 9 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for fluorescence

Word History

Etymology

fluorspar + opalescence

First Known Use

1852, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fluorescence was in 1852

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Cite this Entry

“Fluorescence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fluorescence. Accessed 9 Mar. 2025.

Kids Definition

fluorescence

noun
flu·​o·​res·​cence
ˌflu̇(-ə)r-ˈes-ᵊn(t)s
: the giving off of radiation usually as visible light when exposed to radiation from another source (as ultraviolet light)
also : the radiation given off

Medical Definition

fluorescence

noun
flu·​o·​res·​cence -ˈes-ᵊn(t)s How to pronounce fluorescence (audio)
: luminescence that is caused by the absorption of radiation at one wavelength followed by nearly immediate reradiation usually at a different wavelength and that ceases almost immediately when the incident radiation stops
also : the radiation emitted
fluorescent adjective
fluorescently adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on fluorescence

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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