CultureAugust 1, 2026

translucence

trans-LOO-sens

Definition

The quality of allowing light to pass through something diffusely, creating a soft, partially clear, or luminous appearance.

Etymology

Derived from the Latin 'translucere', where 'trans-' means 'across' or 'through' and 'lucere' means 'to shine'. It entered English in the 17th century to describe materials that permit light transmission.

In the news

The article uses the word to describe the delicate, semi-clear quality of Han Kang's prose, suggesting her writing allows meaning and emotion to filter through with a subtle radiance.

Literature in Nobel laureate Han Kang’s world is not an escape from darkness, but the stubborn preservation of human tenderness within it

Read the full article ↗

Down To Earth

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