scintillation

Meanings

Plural: scintillations

Noun

• (physics) a flash of light that is produced in a phosphor when it absorbs a photon or ionizing particle
• a rapid change in brightness; a brief spark or flash
• a brilliant display of wit
• the quality of shining with a bright reflected light
• the twinkling of the stars caused when changes in the density of the earth's atmosphere produce uneven refraction of starlight
• A flash of light; a spark.
• The twinkling of a star or other celestial body caused by turbulence in the Earth's atmosphere.
• The flash of light produced by something (especially a phosphor) when it absorbs ionizing radiation.
• A brief expression that is amusing or clever; witticism.

Synonyms

glisten, glister, glitter, sparkle, sparkling, twinkle

Related Words

scintillate, scintillating, scintillator