# scintillating

/sˈɪntɪlˌeɪtɪŋ/ (UK) · CEFR C1 · Adjective

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/scintillating
Updated: 2026-10-18

## Definition

very bright, lively, and clever in a way that holds your attention. You use it for talk, ideas, or performances that feel exciting and smart.

For teachers: sparkling, witty, and lively in a way that excites interest and admiration; applied to conversation, ideas, or performance rather than literal light. Retains a sense of flashing brilliance from its origin in describing sparks or stars.

## Examples

- She gives a scintillating talk about space travel.
- The dinner turns lively thanks to his scintillating stories about years working abroad.
- Her scintillating lecture wove physics, poetry, and personal memory into an argument that left even sceptical colleagues quietly reconsidering their assumptions.

## Usage notes

- Typically placed before the noun it modifies; also follows linking verbs like 'be' or 'seem'.

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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.