luminosity
noun
lu·mi·nos·i·ty
ˌlü-mə-ˈnä-sə-tē 
plural luminosities
1
a
: the quality or state of being luminous
b
: something luminous
2
a
: the relative quantity of light
b
: relative brightness of something
3
: the relative quantity of radiation emitted by a celestial source (such as a star)
Examples of luminosity in a Sentence
the luminosity of the fireflies made for an enchanting nighttime show
Recent Examples on the Web
The luminosity of the supermoon, which appears brighter and fuller than a regular full moon due to its proximity to Earth, may prevent visibility of the Quadrantid meteor shower.
—
Ashley Strickland, CNN Money, 31 Dec. 2025
For centuries, painters had primed canvases, building up layers of thick pigment and glaze to create the illusion of luminosity and depth.
—Zachary Fine, New Yorker, 22 Dec. 2025
Gold is a color associated with luxury, luminosity, and celebration—ideal for the holidays and all your New Year manifestations.
—Andrea Carbajal, Glamour, 13 Dec. 2025
The contrast provides luminosity and a sense of movement that makes hair look light and healthy, as well as a bronzed effect.
—María Diez, Vogue, 17 Nov. 2025
See All Example Sentences for luminosity
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Ashley Strickland, CNN Money, 31 Dec. 2025
For centuries, painters had primed canvases, building up layers of thick pigment and glaze to create the illusion of luminosity and depth.
—Zachary Fine, New Yorker, 22 Dec. 2025
Gold is a color associated with luxury, luminosity, and celebration—ideal for the holidays and all your New Year manifestations.
—Andrea Carbajal, Glamour, 13 Dec. 2025
The contrast provides luminosity and a sense of movement that makes hair look light and healthy, as well as a bronzed effect.
—María Diez, Vogue, 17 Nov. 2025
See All Example Sentences for luminosity
Cite this Entry
“Luminosity.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/luminosity. Accessed 2 Jan. 2026.
Copy CitationKids Definition
luminosity
noun
lu·mi·nos·i·ty
ˌlü-mə-ˈnäs-ət-ē
plural luminosities
1
: the quality or state of being luminous : brightness
2
: something luminous
Medical Definition
luminosity
noun
lu·mi·nos·i·ty
ˌlü-mə-ˈnäs-ət-ē
plural luminosities
1
: the quality or state of being luminous
2
a
: the relative quantity of light
b
: the comparative degree to which light of a given wavelength induces the sensation of brightness when perceived
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