noun
translucence
tranz-LOO-suns/trænzˈluːsns/
The quality of letting light through without allowing objects to be seen clearly.
The frosted glass's translucence admits light while blurring the plant behind it.
Etymology
The pieces describe the quality of shining through. Once used for faint or indistinct light itself, translucence came to name partial transparency—the quality of admitting light without a clear view.
In context
However, when illuminated from behind or within, the cup dramatically shifts its hue to a luminous deep red, displaying a vivid translucence that seems astonishingly modern.
More examples
- The frosted glass offers both translucence and privacy.
- Holding the porcelain cup toward a light reveals its translucence.
- We choose these curtains for their soft color and translucence.
Forms
translucent adjective — Allowing light through without showing objects clearly.
Similar words
- translucency
- Names the same quality and can generally be used interchangeably.
- semitransparency
- Emphasizes limited transparency, not necessarily the diffuse transmission of light.