Translucency (/trænzˈluːsənsi/) refers to the quality of allowing light to pass through, but not enough to make the object clearly visible. The spelling of this word can be broken down as follows: "trans" meaning "across" or "beyond," "luce" meaning "light," and "ency" meaning "quality of." Therefore, translucency is a noun that describes the characteristic of allowing light to pass through an object. Accurate spelling of this word is important for effective communication in fields such as optics, architecture, and art.
Translucency is a characteristic or property of a material or object that allows light to pass through it but diffuses or scatters the light to some degree. It refers to the ability of an object to transmit light while also partially obscuring or blurring any objects or images seen through it.
Translucency is often used to describe materials that are not completely transparent, yet are not entirely opaque either. It describes the quality of objects that allow some degree of light to penetrate and be transmitted through them, but at the same time, prevent a clear, sharp image or view from being seen.
This property is commonly observed in certain natural and synthetic materials like frosted glass, wax paper, thin fabrics, or semi-transparent plastics. These materials possess a degree of opacity that diffuses light, reducing its intensity and preventing a clear view of objects behind or within them.
Translucency can also refer to the amount of light that is transmitted through an object or material. It is measured on a scale, typically expressed as a percentage, where 100% represents perfect transparency and 0% represents complete opacity. The level of translucency may vary depending on the thickness, composition, or texture of the material.
That property of certain minerals and other substances which permits light to pass through them, but not in sufficient quantity to show distinctly the forms and colours of objects placed on their oter side.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
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The word "translucency" is derived from the Latin word "translucentia", which combines the prefix "trans-" meaning "through" or "across", and the noun "lucentia" meaning "brightness" or "shining". "Translucentia" itself is formed from the verb "lucere", meaning "to shine" or "to be bright". Therefore, "translucency" essentially refers to the property of allowing some light to pass through, while still scattering or diffusing it.