Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

phosphorescence

noun

/ˌfɒsfəˈrɛsəns/

Definition

The phenomenon of light emission by a substance without combustion or perceptible heat.

Examples

The glow-in-the-dark stars on the ceiling exhibit phosphorescence.
Some animals, like certain jellyfish, exhibit phosphorescence as a form of communication.
The watch features a phosphorescent coating that allows it to glow in the dark.

Meaning

Phosphorescence is a type of photoluminescence related to fluorescence. In phosphorescence, a substance absorbs energy and re-emits it as visible light over a prolonged period.