fluorescence

noun

fluo·​res·​cence flu̇-ˈre-sᵊn(t)s How to pronounce fluorescence (audio)
flȯ-
: luminescence that is caused by the absorption of radiation at one wavelength followed by nearly immediate reradiation usually at a different wavelength and that ceases almost at once when the incident radiation stops
also : the radiation emitted compare phosphorescence

Examples of fluorescence in a Sentence

studied the fluorescence of certain elements
Recent Examples on the Web Researchers used a portable X-ray fluorescence analyzer as part of their investigation of Mutton’s remains. Chris Stantis, Discover Magazine, 25 Dec. 2023 That green fluorescence allowed the team to visually track the changes in calcium concentrations in response to stimulating the plant's sensitive hairs with a needle. Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 3 Aug. 2023 The first two fragments were discovered by the Museum of Modern Art in New York in 2013, when technicians used X-ray fluorescence to examine two later (1935) paintings: Le Portrait and Le Modèle Rouge. Jennifer Ouellette, Ars Technica, 2 Aug. 2023 This fluorescence causes the crystal layer to glow green when irradiated with UV light. IEEE Spectrum, 24 Nov. 2023 The leaves on the trees lining the sidewalk had a mid-autumn fluorescence. Hanif Abdurraqib, The New Yorker, 5 Jan. 2024 To investigate the painting’s chemical composition, researchers studied a tiny paint sample using techniques known as X-ray fluorescence and ptychography. Sarah Kuta, Smithsonian Magazine, 21 Dec. 2023 The green appearance is attributed to PNC layer fluorescence. IEEE Spectrum, 24 Nov. 2023 However, fluorescence was particularly widespread in nocturnal mammals, so the researchers theorize these creatures might communicate at night using their glow. Will Sullivan, Smithsonian Magazine, 10 Oct. 2023

These examples are programmatically compiled from various online sources to illustrate current usage of the word 'fluorescence.' Any opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback about these examples.

Word History

Etymology

fluorspar + opalescence

First Known Use

1852, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of fluorescence was in 1852

Dictionary Entries Near fluorescence

Cite this Entry

“Fluorescence.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fluorescence. Accessed 18 Mar. 2024.

Kids Definition

fluorescence

noun
flu·​o·​res·​cence
ˌflu̇(-ə)r-ˈes-ᵊn(t)s
: the giving off of radiation usually as visible light when exposed to radiation from another source (as ultraviolet light)
also : the radiation given off

Medical Definition

fluorescence

noun
flu·​o·​res·​cence -ˈes-ᵊn(t)s How to pronounce fluorescence (audio)
: luminescence that is caused by the absorption of radiation at one wavelength followed by nearly immediate reradiation usually at a different wavelength and that ceases almost immediately when the incident radiation stops
also : the radiation emitted
fluorescent adjective
fluorescently adverb

More from Merriam-Webster on fluorescence

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