opalescent

adjective

opal·​es·​cent ˌō-pə-ˈle-sᵊnt How to pronounce opalescent (audio)
: reflecting an iridescent light
opalescence noun
opalescently adverb

Examples of opalescent in a Sentence

once given away as a cheap prize at carnivals, this opalescent glass is now highly prized by collectors
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.
The Ellipse required 90 cm of gold wire shaped by hand and 20 shades of opaque and opalescent enamel, while the table clock used over 16 m of gold wire in three different widths and 45 shades of mainly translucent enamel mixed with some semi-translucent or opaque versions of the material. Paige Reddinger, Robb Report, 24 Mar. 2025 Nor could anyone ever be a better pal to Leslie than Ann, opalescent tree shark. Kevin Jacobsen, EW.com, 19 Mar. 2025 Both are members of the botanical family Violaceae. 07 of 10 ‘Gem Apricot Antique’ Viola In addition to their soft, romantic colors, 'Gem Apricot Antique' petals also feature an opalescent cast and violet veining. Miranda Crowell, Better Homes & Gardens, 17 Feb. 2025 Pair the mystical hue with opalescent textures, like an inlaid mother-of-pearl side table. Lauren Thomann, Better Homes & Gardens, 16 Jan. 2025 See All Example Sentences for opalescent

Word History

First Known Use

circa 1813, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of opalescent was circa 1813

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Cite this Entry

“Opalescent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/opalescent. Accessed 13 Apr. 2025.

Medical Definition

opalescent

adjective
opal·​es·​cent ˌō-pə-ˈles-ᵊnt How to pronounce opalescent (audio)
: reflecting an iridescent light
saliva is a viscous opalescent fluid
opalescence noun
opalescently adverb
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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