Dictionary.com
Thesaurus.com
Synonyms

effulgence

American  
[ih-fuhl-juhns, ih-fool‑] / ɪˈfʌl dʒəns, ɪˈfʊl‑ /

noun

  1. a brilliant radiance; a shining forth.


Etymology

Origin of effulgence

effulg(ent) + -ence

Explanation

Your future's so bright, you've got to wear shades. Really, it's giving off blinding, radiant rays of light — what some people would call effulgence. Effulgence is brightness taken to the extreme. You may be dazzled by it, stunned by it, or even overcome by it. Usually used to refer to the sun or some other mega-star, effulgence can also be used more figuratively. If you're met with the mega-watt effulgence of the most beautiful movie star, take a moment to marvel at the rays of light shooting from her perfect smile. Then snap out of it and ask for an autograph.

Keep Reading on Vocabulary.com

Vocabulary lists containing effulgence

Example Sentences

Examples are provided to illustrate real-world usage of words in context. Any opinions expressed do not reflect the views of Dictionary.com.

He is a golden, godlike being from whom a healing effulgence emanates at all times.

From Washington Post • Jul. 28, 2021

Because Loomis Todd is played by Kathleen Chalfant, an actress of rigor and effulgence, the play also provides a master class in how to take a shopworn form and make it nearly new.

From New York Times • Nov. 1, 2019

But the effulgence of “No Shape” frees Hadreas.

From The New Yorker • May 8, 2017

Inside parliament and out, he was a flamboyant self-advertiser who dripped superlatives, ornate insincerities and exotic effulgence.

From The Guardian • Jul. 17, 2013

There was a soft effulgence in the east The moon was coming up, and its mystic shimmer was casting a million lights across the distant restless water.

From "The Awakening" by Kate Chopin

Vocabulary.com logo
by dictionary.com

Look it up. Learn it forever.

Remember "effulgence" for good with VocabTrainer. Expand your vocabulary effortlessly with personalized learning tools that adapt to your goals.

Take me to Vocabulary.com