iridescent
UK: ˌɪr.ɪˈdes.ənt | US: ˌɪr.əˈdes.ənt
adj. showing luminous colors that seem to change when seen from different angles
adj. having a play of colors producing rainbow-like effects
iridescent = irid<rainbow> + esc<beginning> + ent<adjective suffix>
- irid: From Latin iris (rainbow), referring to the prismatic color spectrum.
- esc: Derived from Latin -escere (inceptive verb suffix), indicating the beginning of an action.
- ent: Adjective-forming suffix from Latin -entem, denoting a quality or state.
Etymology Origin:
The word iridescent traces back to the Latin iris (rainbow), inspired by the Greek goddess Iris, who personified the rainbow. The suffix -escent (via Latin -escere) implies a process of becoming, capturing the dynamic, shifting nature of rainbow-like colors. Combined, the term vividly describes surfaces that shimmer with changing hues, much like light refracting through a prism.
The soap bubble burst, leaving behind an iridescent sheen on the water.
Peacock feathers are admired for their iridescent blues and greens.
The oil spill created an iridescent film on the pavement after the rain.
Her dress was made of iridescent fabric that glimmered under the stage lights.
The beetle's shell had an iridescent quality, shifting from purple to green in the sunlight.