resplandor
“resplandor” means “glow” in Spanish. It has 2 different meanings depending on context:
glow, radianceAlso: glare, brilliance
📝 In Action
El resplandor del sol sobre el mar era casi cegador.
B2The glare of the sun on the sea was almost blinding.
Vimos un resplandor extraño en el cielo nocturno.
B1We saw a strange glow in the night sky.
El resplandor de las velas creaba un ambiente romántico.
B2The radiance of the candles created a romantic atmosphere.
Word Connections
splendor, gloryAlso: afterglow
📝 In Action
Todavía se puede ver el resplandor de su antigua gloria.
C1You can still see the splendor of its former glory.
Había un resplandor de felicidad en su rostro.
B2There was a radiance of happiness on her face.
Word Connections
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✏️ Quick Practice
Quick Quiz: resplandor
Question 1 of 3
Which word would you use for a tiny sparkle on a piece of jewelry?
📚 More Resources
👥 Word Family
📚 Etymology
Derived from the Latin verb 'resplendēre'. The prefix 're-' emphasizes the action, and 'splendēre' means 'to shine'. It shares the same root as the English word 'resplendent'.
First recorded: 13th century
Cognates (Related words)
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Frequently Asked Questions
Is 'resplandor' the same as 'brillo'?
Not exactly. 'Brillo' is a general word for any shine. 'Resplandor' is more intense and describes a spreading radiance or glow, like from a fire or the sun.
Is it a common word?
It's common in writing and storytelling. In basic daily speech, people might just say 'luz' (light) or 'brillo', but 'resplandor' is used when you want to be more specific about a beautiful or powerful light.
Can I use 'resplandor' to describe a person?
Yes! If someone looks very happy or radiant (perhaps a bride or someone with great news), you can say they have a 'resplandor' on their face.