noun
lumen
LOO-min/ˈluːmɪn/
A unit measuring visible light output.
The brighter bulb emits more lumens than the dimmer one.
Etymology
Latin lumen means “light.” That everyday concept became a technical measurement name when the word was chosen for a unit measuring emitted visible light.
In context
test the area with a light meter the illumination should be kept below 150 lux or lumen per square meter
More examples
- Check the lumens on the package before choosing a reading light.
- This camping lantern produces 400 lumens on its highest setting.
- Compare projectors by their lumen ratings, not just their prices.
Forms
lumen · lumens
Similar words
- lux
- Measures light reaching a surface, rather than total light output.
- watt
- Measures power, not the amount of visible light produced.