brilliance

[ bril-yuhns ]

noun

1. great brightness; luster:

   the brilliance of a fine diamond.

   Synonyms: refulgence, effulgence, radiance

   Antonyms: dullness

2. excellence or distinction; conspicuous talent, mental ability, etc.

   Synonyms: illustriousness, genius, preeminence

   Antonyms: dullness

3. splendor, elegance, or magnificence:

   the brilliance of the court of Louis XIV.

4. Optics. that luminance of a body consisting of its saturation and brightness.

brilliance

/ ˈbrɪljəns /

noun

1. great brightness; radiance
2. excellence or distinction in physical or mental ability; exceptional talent
3. splendour; magnificence

   the brilliance of the royal court

4. physics a former term for luminance

Other Words From

• over·brilliance noun

Word History and Origins

Origin of brilliance¹

First recorded in 1745–55; brilli(ant) + -ance

Example Sentences

Here are 10 songs that showcase his versatility and brilliance in the studio, and his ability to draw the best out of the musicians he worked with.

From BBC

Their work, expertise and talents so often led to box-office brilliance while personal lives were forced into the shadows, often at great cost.

From Los Angeles Times

In an example of the unassuming brilliance with which Diop and editor Gabriel Gonzalez assemble the images and sounds of “Dahomey,” they cut from that depiction of ancient servitude to the young construction workers arduously getting the local museum ready for diplomats to visit.

From Los Angeles Times

Pastor Henrique Vieira, a federal congressman, said: "I didn't want her to be a flag, a slogan. She is missed and we really miss Mari's joy, strength, bravery, brilliance."

From BBC

There were flashes of brilliance along the way, notably during a strong finish to the 2022 season.

From Los Angeles Times

Related Words

• cleverness
• excellence
• inspiration
• intelligence
• inventiveness
• talent
• wisdom