effulgent

PRONUNCIATION:

(i-FUHL-juhnt, i-fool-)

MEANING:

adjective: Shining brilliantly; radiant.

ETYMOLOGY:

From Latin effulgere (to shine out), from ex- (out) + fulgere (to shine). Ultimately from the Indo-European root bhel- (to shine or burn), which is also the source of blaze, blank, blond, bleach, blanket, and flame. Earliest documented use: 1737.

USAGE:

"No other ballet so remorselessly exposes the gulf between effulgent grandeur and mere competence."

Hat tip to Lauren for the link.