# incandescent

/ˌɪnkənˈdɛsənt/ (US) · /ˌɪnkɐndˈɛsənt/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/incandescent
Updated: 2026-05-11

## Definition

giving out a lot of bright light because something is very hot. It can also describe a person who is feeling extremely angry.

For teachers: emitting light as a result of being heated; by extension, characterized by intense emotion or brilliance. Often used predicatively to describe extreme anger.

## Examples

- The old light bulb gave off a warm, incandescent glow.
- He was absolutely incandescent with rage when he found out they had lied to him.
- The artist's later works are known for their incandescent colors, which seem to vibrate with an internal energy that transcends the flat surface of the canvas.

## Usage notes

- Often follows a linking verb like 'be' or 'become' when describing an emotional state.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.