# radiance

/ˈɹeɪˌdiəns/ (US) · /ɹˈeɪdiəns/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Noun

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

## Definition

a glowing light or a look of great health and happiness. It describes something that shines brightly or someone who looks very beautiful and glowing.

For teachers: the quality of emitting or reflecting light; a glowing or vivid brightness. Often used figuratively to describe a person's appearance of health, joy, or beauty.

## Examples

- The bride had a natural radiance on her wedding day.
- The morning sun hit the snow with such radiance that we had to wear sunglasses to look outside.

## Usage notes

- Typically uncountable when referring to light or beauty; rarely used in the plural.

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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.