scintillation

• Nom désignant une brève émission de lumière produite par un matériau phosphorescent lorsqu'il absorbe un photon ou une particule ionisante, ou, plus généralement, une étincelle, un scintillement ou une manifestation lumineuse éclatante et brève.

A noun referring to a flash of light produced when a phosphor absorbs a photon or ionizing particle, or more generally a brief spark, twinkle, or brilliant display.

1. Flash of light in physicsC1formalscientific

   A brief flash of light emitted by a phosphor when it absorbs a photon or an ionizing particle.

   Scintillation (physique)

   • The scintillation detector recorded each particle interaction.
   • Scintillation in the phosphor screen indicated the presence of radiation.
   • The physicist observed a faint scintillation in the dark chamber.

   Synonymesflashglintspark

2. Rapid change in brightnessC1formal

   A quick, brief spark or flash of light, often involving rapid changes in brightness.

   Scintillement

   • The diamond's scintillation caught everyone's eye.
   • The firefly's scintillation was visible in the twilight.
   • The scintillation of the gemstone was mesmerizing.

   Synonymesflickeringglimmeringglitteringsparklingtwinkling

3. Brilliant display of witC2formal

   A lively and brilliant display of cleverness or humor in conversation or writing.

   Éclat d'esprit

   • Her scintillation at the dinner party entertained all the guests.
   • The author's scintillation is evident in every witty remark.
   • His scintillation made the debate both engaging and insightful.

   Synonymesbrillianceclevernesseffervescenceflashglittersparklewitwittiness

   Antonymesdullness

4. Quality of shining brightlyC1formal

   The quality of reflecting light brightly, often with a sparkling or gleaming effect.

   Éclat scintillant

   • The scintillation of the polished silverware was stunning.
   • The lake's surface had a beautiful scintillation under the sun.
   • The scintillation of the chandelier lit up the entire room.

   Synonymesflashgleamglistenglittershimmersparkletwinkle

5. Twinkling of starsC1formalscientific

   The twinkling effect of stars caused by changes in the density of Earth's atmosphere, leading to uneven refraction of starlight.

   Scintillation des étoiles

   • The scintillation of the stars was particularly strong on that clear night.
   • Astronomers account for atmospheric scintillation when observing distant objects.
   • The twinkling scintillation of the stars is a beautiful natural phenomenon.

   Synonymesflickeringglimmeringsparklingtwinkling