# iridescent

/ˌɪɹəˈdɛsənt/ (US) · /ˌɪɹɪdˈɛsənt/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/iridescent
Updated: 2026-05-25

## Definition

shining with many different colors that change when you move it. You often see this on soap bubbles, oil on water, or the wings of some insects.

For teachers: characterised by a surface that displays a spectrum of colors changing with the angle of view. Often describes the optical effect of thin-film interference or structural coloration in nature.

## Examples

- The dragonfly has iridescent wings that shimmer in the sun.
- After the rain, the puddles on the road became iridescent as the oil and water mixed together.
- The museum's collection includes several iridescent gemstones, whose luster is caused by the microscopic layers of minerals that refract light in different directions.

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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.