fluorescent

UK: flɔːˈres.ənt | US: flʊˈres.ənt

Definition
  1. adj. emitting light as a result of absorbing radiation of a shorter wavelength

  2. adj. vividly colorful or bright

  3. adj. (of a substance) capable of fluorescence

Structure
fluor <mineral containing fluorine>esc <verb-forming suffix>ent <adjective suffix>
Etymology

fluorescent = fluor<mineral containing fluorine> + esc<verb-forming suffix> + ent<adjective suffix>

  • fluor (from Latin fluor, meaning "flow" or "a mineral containing fluorine")
  • esc (a verb-forming suffix derived from Latin -escere, indicating a process or state)
  • ent (an adjective-forming suffix from Latin -entem, meaning "performing or causing an action")

Etymology Origin:
The word fluorescent originates from the mineral fluorite (calcium fluoride), which exhibits fluorescence when exposed to ultraviolet light. The Latin root fluor ("flow") refers to the mineral’s use as a flux in metallurgy. The suffix -escent (via Latin -escere) denotes a process of becoming, reflecting the emission of light under specific conditions. The term was coined in the mid-19th century to describe this luminous phenomenon.

Examples
  1. The fluorescent dye glowed brightly under UV light.

  2. She wore a fluorescent pink jacket for visibility at night.

  3. Fluorescent bulbs are more energy-efficient than incandescent ones.

  4. The scientist studied the fluorescent properties of the new compound.

  5. The posters were printed in fluorescent colors to attract attention.