Vocab Activity 8: Heavenly Light

AP Eng Lit

Solarize

Expose to the rays of the sun or affected by exposure to the sun

The photographer used a special filter to solarize the image, giving the sunset an ethereal, glowing effect

Synonym: isolate, sun. expose.

Circumsolar

Referring to or revolving around the sun; located or occurring in the region surrounding the sun.

The comet followed a circumsolar orbit, its path taking it around the sun every few centuries.

Synonyms:

• Sun-orbiting

• Solar-adjacent

• Around the sun

Antonyms:

• Extraterrestrial

• Earth-bound

• Non-solar

Astronomical

Related to astronomy or extremely large in size or amount.

The astronomical cost of the new space mission surprised even the experts.

Astral

Relating to or resembling the stars; sometimes used to describe a spiritual or otherworldly plane

The painting depicted an astral scene, with glowing stars surrounding a mystical figure.

Sidereal

Anything related to the stars or constellations. Measurements based on the positions of stars.

The spacecraft followed a sidereal trajectory, using the stars as navigational points.

Unconsidered

Something that has not been thought about, taken into account, or given due attention. It can imply neglect or a lack of reflection regarding a particular issue or aspect.

The environmental impacts of the project were left unconsidered, leading to unexpected damage.

Luminary

A person who inspires or influences others, especially in a particular field; also, a natural light source, such as a star.

As a luminary in the scientific community, her research has shaped modern understanding of quantum mechanics.

Luminous

Emitting or reflecting light; glowing; bright.

The luminous glow of the fireflies lit up the night, creating a magical atmosphere in the garden.

Photic

Relating to or denoting light, especially in the context of environments where light is a critical factor (e.g., photic zone in oceans).

The photic zone of the ocean is teeming with life because it receives sufficient sunlight for plants to grow.

Phosphoresce

To emit light after absorbing radiation, to glow even after the source of excitation has been removed.

The plankton began to phosphoresce, lighting up the waves with a soft, greenish glow.

Elucidate

To make something clear or easy to understand; to explain.

The teacher was able to elucidate the complex theory with simple examples that everyone could understand.

Lucidity

The quality of being clear and easy to understand; clarity of thought or expression.

Despite the chaos, her speech had a lucidity that brought comfort to the crowd.

Candor

The quality of being open, honest, and straightforward in expression.

His candor during the meeting was appreciated, as he spoke the truth without sugarcoating the situation.

Incandescent

Emitting light as a result of being heated; glowing; also used metaphorically to describe passionate or brilliant expressions

The incandescent light bulbs bathed the room in a warm, golden glow and gave the visuals of a warm sunset evening.

Effulgence

A brilliant radiance; a shining forth of light or joy.

The effulgence of the rising sun over the horizon was breathtaking, illuminating the entire landscape.

Fulminate

To express vehement protest or to explode with a loud noise; can also refer to a sudden and intense outburst.

The senator continued to fulminate against the proposed bill, calling it a threat to public welfare.

Illustrative

Serving as an example or explanation; clarifying through illustrations or examples.

The professor's anecdote was illustrative of the principle he was trying to explain about human behavior.

Lackluster

Lacking brilliance, vitality, or radiance; or uninspired.

The team’s lackluster performance in the match disappointed their fans.

Umbrage

Offense or annoyance; a feeling of displeasure or resentment.

She took umbrage at his sarcastic comment about the sky being purple during their conversation.

Umbrageous

Providing shade; overshadowing; can also refer to being easily offended or inclined to take offense.

The umbrageous tree offered respite from the harsh summer sun, while her umbrageous nature made it difficult to discuss sensitive topics.