luminary

American  

[loo-muh-ner-ee] / ˈlu məˌnɛr i /

noun

plural

luminaries

1. a celestial body, such as the sun or moon.

2. a body, object, etc., that gives light.

3. a person who has attained eminence in their field or is an inspiration to others.

   The book was written by one of the luminaries in the field of medical science.

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adjective

1. of, relating to, or characterized by light.

luminary British  

/ ˈluːmɪnərɪ /

noun

1. a person who enlightens or influences others

2. a famous person

3. literary something, such as the sun or moon, that gives off light

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adjective

1. of, involving, or characterized by light or enlightenment

Etymology

Origin of luminary

First recorded in 1450–1500; late Middle English luminarye, from Medieval Latin lūmināria “lamp”; luminaria

Example Sentences

Why would luminaries risk their reputations by interacting with Jeffrey Epstein?

From The Wall Street Journal

Why would luminaries risk their reputations by interacting with Jeffrey Epstein?

From The Wall Street Journal

“A storied townhouse that has played host to luminaries from all industries, this once-in-a-lifetime offering awaits the most discerning buyer,” the description added.

From MarketWatch

Trying to make my way through the throng of movie stars, filmmakers and other luminaries was almost like an Olympic event.

From Los Angeles Times

In the 1960s and early ’70s, she is a plucky striver; in later decades, she is another famous author—book tours, awards, hobnobbing with luminaries, Democratic politics, remodeling homes in tony enclaves.

From The Wall Street Journal

Related Words

• celebrity
• dignitary
• notable
• personage
• superstar