Candescence

/kænˈdɛsəns/ noun

Definition

The state of becoming luminous or glowing through the application of heat; incandescence.

Etymology

From Latin candescentia, from candescere (to become white or glow), a frequentative verb based on candere (to shine). The -escence suffix indicates a gradual process or state of becoming.

Kelly Says

Candescence is the scientific word for what happens when an old light bulb filament glows—the term literally means 'becoming shiny,' capturing the gradual brightening as temperature increases.

Related Words

Explore More Words

Get the Word Orb API

Complete word intelligence in one call. Free tier — 50 lookups/day.