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translucent

adjective
trans·​lu·​cent | \ tran(t)s-ˈlü-sᵊnt How to pronounce translucent (audio) , tranz-\

Definition of translucent

1 : permitting the passage of light:
a : transmitting and diffusing light so that objects beyond cannot be seen clearly
b : clear, transparent translucent water
2 : free from disguise or falseness his translucent patriotism — Newsweek
Other Words from translucent Choose the Right Synonym Did You Know? More Example Sentences Learn More about translucent

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Other Words from translucent

translucently adverb

Choose the Right Synonym for translucent

clear, transparent, translucent, limpid mean capable of being seen through. clear implies absence of cloudiness, haziness, or muddiness. clear water transparent implies being so clear that objects can be seen distinctly. a transparent sheet of film translucent implies the passage of light but not a clear view of what lies beyond. translucent frosted glass limpid suggests the soft clearness of pure water. her eyes were limpid pools of blue

Did You Know?

Look closely and you will see the same three letters in "translucent" and "elucidate," letting the family relationship between the two words shine through. Both terms descend from the Latin word lucēre, meaning "to shine." ("Translucent" is from "lucēre" plus "trans-," which means "through.") When you "elucidate" something, you make it clear by explaining it in a way that can be easily understood - you "shed light on" it. "Lucēre" is also the root of another bright and shining English word, "lucid," which can mean either "bright with light" or "clear and easy to understand."

Examples of translucent in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

 The rice was ever-so-slightly translucent, with each grain distinct and with a light vinegary flavor and hint of sweetness. — Michael A. Gardiner, San Diego Union-Tribune, "Unrushed rice is key to success with homemade sushi," 6 Aug. 2019 Add the garlic and chiles and cook, stirring frequently, until the garlic is translucent. — Michalene Busico, Dallas News, "'Mercados' cookbook explores the wonders of Mexico's markets and brings home the recipes," 31 July 2019 Roast until center is still translucent when checked with tip of paring knife and registers 120 F (for medium-rare), 4 to 6 minutes. — Washington Post, "For this roasted salmon, skip the butter and go for relish," 29 July 2019 Stir well and sauté until shallots are translucent. — Alexandra Hall, BostonGlobe.com, "Can you make a vegetarian meal on the grill? Let local chefs show you how," 17 July 2019 In many accounts, green icebergs also appear to be strikingly translucent. — Robin George Andrews, National Geographic, "Icebergs can be emerald green. Now we know why.," 15 Mar. 2019 That bathroom was outrageous in its own way, with a tub of molded wood and a toilet tank that was translucent yellow. — Mark Lamster, Dallas News, "The epic tale of the House of the Century, the trippy Texas icon that defies polite description," 12 July 2019 Then these translucent brown spots appeared on lilacs all over. — Jeff Lowenfels, Anchorage Daily News, "Here’s what’s going on with those blotchy brown spots on your lilac bush," 12 July 2019 Social media users pointed out that the translucent black scribble failed to conceal the meal, pillorying the apparent attempt to hide the Israeli diplomat's consumption of the non-kosher shellfish. — Emily Dixon, CNN, "Israeli embassy in Brazil mocked for censoring photo of ambassador eating lobster," 9 July 2019

These example sentences are selected automatically from various online news sources to reflect current usage of the word 'translucent.' Views expressed in the examples do not represent the opinion of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.

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First Known Use of translucent

1607, in the meaning defined at sense 1

History and Etymology for translucent

Latin translucent-, translucens, present participle of translucēre to shine through, from trans- + lucēre to shine — more at light

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More Definitions for translucent

translucent

adjective
How to pronounce translucent (audio)

English Language Learners Definition of translucent

: not completely clear or transparent but clear enough to allow light to pass through

See the full definition for translucent in the English Language Learners Dictionary

translucent

adjective
trans·​lu·​cent | \ trans-ˈlü-sᵊnt How to pronounce translucent (audio) \

Kids Definition of translucent

: not transparent but clear enough to allow rays of light to pass through

translucent

adjective
trans·​lu·​cent | \ -ᵊnt How to pronounce translucent (audio) \

Medical Definition of translucent

: permitting the passage of light especially : transmitting and diffusing light so that objects beyond cannot be seen clearly

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