1
as in glowing
giving off or reflecting much light
the luminous moon bathed the snow-covered fields with a pearly glow
Synonyms & Similar Words
Relevance
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
2
as in outstanding
standing above others in rank, importance, or achievement
some of the most luminous writers in the nation's history have graced that magazine's pages
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
3
as in unmistakable
not subject to misinterpretation or more than one interpretation
an author with a simple, luminous prose style that is free of affectation and pretention
Synonyms & Similar Words
Antonyms & Near Antonyms
Example Sentences
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.
Recent Examples of luminous
My favorite one involves Kat Ross, an astrophysicist at Curtin University in Perth, Australia who studies distant, luminous galaxies.
—
Phil Plait,
Scientific American,
26 June 2026
The observations seem to nail down the theory that clusters of hot, massive, luminous stars in young galaxies in the early universe played a dominant role in ionizing the universe's neutral gas.
—
Keith Cooper,
Space.com,
24 June 2026
Makeup artist Tracey Levy utilized Beauty Pie products for the actress’ luminous visage.
—
Julia Teti,
Footwear News,
24 June 2026
Blurring bamboo silk powders keep shine in check without dulling skin, while camellia seed oil and antioxidant-rich vitamin E help mature complexions look smooth, hydrated, and naturally luminous.
—
Christa Joanna Lee,
Allure,
23 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for luminous
Phil Plait,
Scientific American,
26 June 2026
The observations seem to nail down the theory that clusters of hot, massive, luminous stars in young galaxies in the early universe played a dominant role in ionizing the universe's neutral gas.
—
Keith Cooper,
Space.com,
24 June 2026
Makeup artist Tracey Levy utilized Beauty Pie products for the actress’ luminous visage.
—
Julia Teti,
Footwear News,
24 June 2026
Blurring bamboo silk powders keep shine in check without dulling skin, while camellia seed oil and antioxidant-rich vitamin E help mature complexions look smooth, hydrated, and naturally luminous.
—
Christa Joanna Lee,
Allure,
23 June 2026
See All Example Sentences for luminous
Recent Examples of Synonyms for luminous
Adjective
-
The trailer opens with a montage of a glowing Lily (Lively) walking through Boston.
-
Its light is rather that of a glowing molten metal than that of a burning furnace.
Adjective
-
Watson was always known for incredibly quick hands and outstanding bat speed.
-
Another outstanding rug in the lineup this week is this easy-to-clean jute number from Joon Loloi at 60% off.
Adjective
-
This band may have created millions of fans, but its influence on the 80s rock music is unmistakable.
-
The warning delivered by this year’s primaries is unmistakable.
Adjective
-
At a time of so much partisanship in Congress, especially related to health care, breakthrough legislation is a shining example of how commonsense policies that support patient care and innovation can achieve broad support.
-
Those memories will remain some of the most shining and unforgettable moments of my life.
Adjective
-
Arlington received a distinguished visitor Saturday as the King of Jordan stopped by during the city's World Cup festivities.
-
Liu, then a Tencent distinguished scientist (a senior title the Chinese tech giant gives to elite researchers) leading the company’s development of its Hunyuan AI model from scratch, saw where the industry was heading.
Adjective
-
The teenage phenom is able to complement his obvious technical skills with a flair and maturity in high-pressure situations that is well beyond his years.
-
This was most obvious during Swift's record-breaking Eras Tour, when brands capitalized on all things Taylor — friendship bracelets, themed drinks and even concert outfits.
Adjective
-
First, look out for the dazzling trio of stars that form the famous Summer Triangle asterism.
-
Her dazzling performances brought home gold for the stars and stripes, all while capturing the hearts of fans worldwide.
Adjective
-
That momentous draw came in the final group-stage game of the prestigious tournament.
-
By the end of the year, Modrić had won the Ballon d’Or, too, the prestigious award given to the world’s best player.
Cite this Entry
“Luminous.” Merriam-Webster.com Thesaurus, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/thesaurus/luminous. Accessed 6 Jul. 2026.
Copy CitationLove words? Need even more definitions?
Merriam-Webster unabridged
