adj
Uncommon
translucent
tranz-LOO-suhnt
Translucent (adj) means allowing light to pass through while scattering it, so objects on the other side appear blurred. Example: “The bathroom window is made of translucent glass.”
adj
1
Allowing light to pass through while scattering it, so objects on the other side appear blurred.
"On the windows of the nearer buildings the sun cast glittering beams, but further away a faint, translucent mist hid the city."
— P. G. Wodehouse (1921)
"The window-panes, encrusted with perennial deposits of Atmosphere, were less transparent than translucent."
— Louis Joseph Vance (1913)
"The bathroom window is made of translucent glass."
"Her skin looked almost translucent under the bright light."
How to use translucent
Learner’s notesIn plain EnglishLetting light through but not letting you see a clear image, unlike transparent.
Common mistake
Not the same as "transparent," which lets you see clearly through it.
Easily confused with
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Word forms
- Plural
- translucents
- Comparative
- more translucent
- Superlative
- most translucent
Fill the gap
Can you complete this real example?
The bathroom window is made of _____ glass.
Etymology
From Latin "translucentem," present participle of "translucere" — "trans-" ("across") plus "lucere" ("to shine").
Synonyms
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Related words
Frequently asked questions
What does “translucent” mean?
The word “translucent” means allowing light to pass through while scattering it, so objects on the other side appear blurred. In plain terms, letting light through but not letting you see a clear image, unlike transparent.
How do you pronounce “translucent”?
“Translucent” is pronounced tranz-LOO-suhnt (/tɹænzˈlu.sənt/ in IPA).
How do you use “translucent” in a sentence?
Here is “translucent” used in a sentence: “The bathroom window is made of translucent glass.”
What is another word for “translucent”?
Words with a similar meaning to “translucent” include semitransparent, semipellucid, semiopaque, through-shine and tralucent.
What is the opposite of “translucent”?
The opposite of “translucent” — its antonyms — are opaque, transparent and turbid.
What part of speech is “translucent”?
“Translucent” is an adjective.
Where does the word “translucent” come from?
The word “translucent” comes from Latin. From Latin "translucentem," present participle of "translucere" — "trans-" ("across") plus "lucere" ("to shine").
Is “translucent” a common word?
“Translucent” is an uncommon word in modern English.
