1. the emission of light by a substance after it has absorbed energy, continuing after the energy source is removed
Usage: physics/chemistry term; contrasts with fluorescence, which stops immediately when the energy source is removed
2. a soft, glowing light produced by phosphorescence
Usage: figurative or descriptive use

Examples

• The phosphorescence of certain deep-sea creatures helps them attract prey in the dark ocean.
• Glow-in-the-dark paint relies on phosphorescence to emit light after absorbing sunlight.
• The watch face displayed a faint phosphorescence in the darkness.
• Scientists study phosphorescence to understand how energy is stored and released by materials.
• The phosphorescence of the jellyfish created an eerie blue glow in the aquarium.
• Unlike fluorescence, phosphorescence can last for several seconds or even minutes after the light source is turned off.