fluorescent

adjective

fluo·​res·​cent flu̇-ˈre-sᵊnt How to pronounce fluorescent (audio)
flȯ-
1
: having or relating to fluorescence
2
: bright and glowing as a result of fluorescence
fluorescent inks
broadly : very bright in color
fluorescent noun
fluorescently adverb

Examples of fluorescent in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Cozy is the name of the game here, as Cummings rightfully points out that dorm rooms usually come equipped with harsh fluorescent lights. — Natalia Gonzalez Blanco Serrano, The Spruce, 27 July 2026 But a step inside revealed bright fluorescent lights and a dozen fencers hard at work. — Elijah Polance, Hartford Courant, 5 July 2026 And the quickest way to do that is to actually get you in the office and under those fluorescent lights. — Colleen Batchelder, Forbes.com, 1 July 2026 Common household hazardous waste items include anti-freeze, motor oil, batteries, fluorescent bulbs, deck stains, pool chemicals, pesticides and household smoke detectors. — Post-Tribune, Chicago Tribune, 29 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for fluorescent

Word History

First Known Use

1853, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Time Traveler
The first known use of fluorescent was in 1853

Phrases Containing fluorescent

Rhymes for fluorescent

See All Rhymes for fluorescent

Browse Nearby Words

fluorescence
fluorescent
fluorescent brightener
See all Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Fluorescent.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/fluorescent. Accessed 4 Aug. 2026.

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Kids Definition

fluorescent

adjective
flu·​o·​res·​cent
ˌflu̇(-ə)r-ˈes-ᵊnt
1
: having or relating to fluorescence
2
: very bright in color
fluorescent markers

More from Merriam-Webster on fluorescent

Nglish: Translation of fluorescent for Spanish Speakers

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