luminosity
UK: ˌluː.mɪˈnɒs.ə.ti | US: ˌluː.mɪˈnɑː.sə.ti
n. the quality or state of emitting or reflecting light; brightness
n. (physics) the intrinsic brightness of a celestial object
n. (figurative) intellectual or spiritual brilliance
luminosity = lumin<light> + osity<noun suffix denoting state/quality>
- lumin (from Latin lumen, meaning "light")
- osity (a suffix derived from Latin -ositas, forming nouns indicating a state or condition)
Etymology Origin:
The word "luminosity" traces back to Latin luminosus ("full of light"), from lumen ("light"). The suffix -osity was adopted into Middle English via Old French, often used to abstract nouns from adjectives (e.g., "curiosity" from "curious"). The term evolved to describe both physical brightness and metaphorical radiance, reflecting its root in illumination.
The luminosity of the full moon lit up the entire valley.
Scientists measure a star’s luminosity to determine its energy output.
Her paintings are admired for their vibrant colors and luminosity.
The luminosity of his ideas inspired generations of thinkers.
Adjust the screen’s luminosity to reduce eye strain in dim light.