adjective

luminous

/ˈluːmɪnəs/ · say it: LOO·muh·nuhs

giving off light; bright

In Describing & Comparing

In more detail

1. (adjective) giving out light; shining or glowing

2. (adjective) easy to see or understand; clear and bright

Examples

1. The luminous dial on the watch glowed in the dark.
2. She gave a luminous explanation that made the complex theory easy to grasp.

How to use luminous

Luminous is used literally to describe things that emit or reflect light, such as stars, glowing signs, or bright eyes. Figuratively, it describes ideas, writing, or explanations that are exceptionally clear and easy to understand. It carries a sense of beauty and clarity beyond mere brightness.

Common phrases

luminous intensity
luminous paint
luminous dial
luminous quality
luminous complexion
luminous prose

Synonyms

radiant · glowing · bright · shining · brilliant

Opposites

dark · dull · dim

Word family

luminescence · luminescent · luminosity · luminously

A common mistake

Learners sometimes confuse luminous with luminescent; luminescent specifically refers to light produced by chemical or biological processes rather than heat, whereas luminous is broader and covers any light-emitting or light-reflecting quality.

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