CultureAugust 20, 2026

bioluminescence

BY-oh-loo-muh-NESS-ens

Definition

The biochemical emission of light by living organisms, such as fireflies, certain fungi, or deep-sea creatures.

Etymology

Derived from the Greek 'bios' (life) and the Latin 'lumen' (light), combined with the suffix '-escence' to denote a process or state of starting to become.

In the news

The article mentions bioluminescence as an example of a complex scientific topic that Mary Batten explains through her engaging, narrative-driven nonfiction writing.

Batten devotes life to science, storytelling and the natural world

Read the full article ↗

Smithfield Times

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