opalescence
UK: ˌəʊ.pəlˈes.əns | US: ˌoʊ.pəlˈes.əns
n. the phenomenon of displaying a play of colors like that of an opal, often with a milky iridescence.
n. a subtle or shimmering change of colors, resembling opal’s visual effect.
The word "opalescence" derives from "opal," a gemstone known for its unique ability to refract light into shifting colors, combined with the suffix "-escence," which indicates a state or quality (from Latin "-escentia"). The term emerged in the early 19th century to describe the opal-like play of colors in other materials, such as liquids or glass. The logic follows the gemstone’s iconic visual trait, extending its meaning to any similar luminous, shifting effect.
The soap bubbles shimmered with a delicate opalescence in the sunlight.
The artist captured the opalescence of the ocean at dawn in her painting.
Certain minerals exhibit opalescence due to their microscopic structure.
The perfume bottle’s glass had a subtle opalescence, making it appear ethereal.
Scientists study the opalescence of colloidal suspensions to understand light scattering.