diaphanous
adjective
Light, delicate, and translucent; so fine as to be almost transparent. Often used to describe fabrics or materials that allow light to pass through.
Etymology
From Medieval Latin "diaphanus," from Greek "diaphanes" (transparent), from "dia" (through) + "phainein" (to show). Literally means "showing through."
Examples in Use
- 1.
"The bride's diaphanous veil floated gently in the summer breeze."
- 2.
"Morning mist created a diaphanous curtain over the valley below."
- 3.
"The butterfly's diaphanous wings revealed intricate vein patterns."
Related Vocabulary
Synonyms
Related Words
Fun Fact
Ancient Greek sculptors developed the "wet drapery" technique to depict diaphanous clothing on statues, making marble appear as transparent as silk. This technique reached its peak in works like the Nike of Samothrace.
Word Game Tips
Letters: 10 letters (D, I, A, P, H, A, N, O, U, S)
Scrabble Value: 16 points
Tip: The letter pattern in "DIAPHANOUS" appears in many related words.
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