Definition
Translucent means allowing light to pass through, but not fully transparent or clear. It refers to a substance or object that scatters light as it passes through, causing it to appear hazy, blurry, or slightly obscured.
Pronunciation
US English
UK English
Part of Speech
Translucent is an adjective.
Synonyms
Semi-transparent, clearish, blurry, foggy, hazy, misty, cloudy, gauzy.
Antonyms
Opaque, transparent, clear, bright, crisp, sharp, distinct.
Word Forms
| Part of Speech | Words |
|---|---|
| Noun | translucences, translucence, translucencies, translucency |
| Verb | None |
| Adjective | translucent |
| Adverb | None |
Example Sentences
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The translucent glass panels on the office door allowed just enough light to pass through, creating a soft glow inside the room.
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The leaves of the fern plant were translucent, with the sunlight filtering through their delicate veins.
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The translucent curtains in the living room gave the space a dreamy, ethereal quality.
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As the morning sunlight streamed through the translucent curtains, casting a soft, diffused glow in the room, the delicate wings of a butterfly perched on the windowsill seemed to radiate with an otherworldly luminescence, their intricate patterns visible through the semi-transparent membrane, reminding observers of the fragile beauty that exists in the natural world, where moments of translucency offer glimpses into hidden realms and inspire a sense of wonder at the intricate and delicate balance of life.
Usage
Translucent comes from the Latin words “trans,” meaning “through,” and “lucere,” meaning “to shine.” The word is often used to describe materials or substances that allow light to pass through, but that are not completely transparent or clear. This can include objects like glass, plastic, or fabric, as well as natural materials like ice or leaves.
Translucent is often used in art and design to create interesting visual effects. For example, an artist might use a translucent material to create a sense of depth or texture in a painting or sculpture. In fashion, translucent fabrics like chiffon or organza can be used to create a sense of movement or fluidity in a garment. In architecture, translucent panels or screens can be used to allow light to pass through a building, while still providing privacy or insulation.
Translucent can be used with prefixes and suffixes to create new words with similar meanings. For example, the prefix “semi-” can be added to “translucent” to create “semitranslucent,” which means partially transparent or semi-opaque. The suffix “-ity” can be added to “translucent” to create “translucency,” which refers to the quality of being translucent.
In everyday usage, the word “translucent” can be used to describe a wide range of materials or substances that allow light to pass through, but that are not completely transparent. It can be a useful word for describing the qualities of objects in art, design, or architecture, as well as natural materials like ice or leaves. The word “translucent” can also be used to create interesting visual effects in writing, helping to create a sense of mystery or ambiguity in a description or scene.