luminosity

noun

lu·​mi·​nos·​i·​ty ˌlü-mə-ˈnä-sə-tē 

plural luminosities

1

a

: the quality or state of being luminous

b

: something luminous

2

a

: the relative quantity of light

b

: relative brightness of something

3

: the relative quantity of radiation emitted by a celestial source (such as a star)

Synonyms

• brightness
• brilliance
• brilliancy
• candor
• dazzle
• effulgence
• illumination
• lambency
• lightness
• luminance
• luminousness
• luster
• lustre
• lustrousness
• radiance
• refulgence
• splendor

Examples of luminosity in a Sentence

the luminosity of the fireflies made for an enchanting nighttime show

Recent Examples on the Web

The coco-palm flower opens with this incredible luminosity that kept pulling me back for another inhale all day long. —Kimberly Wilson, Essence, 25 Oct. 2024

According to the brand, Hugh Dutton’s kinetic light sculpture nods to the luminosity of Tiffany & Co. diamonds, an aim to unite artistry with craftsmanship, and immerse visitors in the jeweler’s world. —Thomas Waller, WWD, 18 Oct. 2024

These stars flicker at a rate that relates to (and can therefore reveal) their intrinsic luminosity. —Liz Kruesi, WIRED, 8 Sep. 2024

Tuchow explains that a star's luminosity will also evolve throughout its lifetime, altering the position of the habitable zone. —Conor Feehly, Discover Magazine, 9 Oct. 2024

Word History

Etymology

borrowed from Middle French & Medieval Latin; Middle French luminosité, borrowed from Medieval Latin lūminōsitāt-, lūminōsitās, from Latin lūminōsus "full of light, luminous" + -itāt-, -itās -ity

First Known Use

1634, in the meaning defined at sense 1a

Kids Definition

luminosity

noun

lu·​mi·​nos·​i·​ty ˌlü-mə-ˈnäs-ət-ē 

plural luminosities

1

: the quality or state of being luminous : brightness

2

: something luminous

Medical Definition

luminosity

noun

lu·​mi·​nos·​i·​ty ˌlü-mə-ˈnäs-ət-ē 

plural luminosities

1

: the quality or state of being luminous

2

a

: the relative quantity of light

b

: the comparative degree to which light of a given wavelength induces the sensation of brightness when perceived